Terms of Reference: Visual artist – Community Toolkit on Early Warning and Anticipatory Action in Mali
Background and Justification
As climate-related disasters grow in frequency and intensity, anticipatory action has become a critical strategy to mitigate the impacts of floods, droughts, and other hazards. In Mali, where vulnerable communities are particularly affected, early warning systems (EWS) and anticipatory action programs can save lives, protect livelihoods, and reduce the need for costly emergency response. However, these tools and programs are often complex and not well understood at the community level.
To support engagement between humanitarian actors, NGOs, and community leaders, IFPRI is developing a visual toolkit to explain the key elements of early warning systems and anticipatory action in accessible, locally resonant ways. This toolkit will include 12 original illustrations that represent core concepts and processes in the EWS / anticipatory action cycle. These visual materials will be used in trainings, community meetings, and printed communications to enhance understanding and participation.
To produce these illustrations, IFPRI seeks to hire a Malian visual artist or illustrator who can translate technical ideas into compelling, contextually appropriate artwork.
Scope of work
The goal of this consultancy is to create 12 original, high-quality illustrations that visually explain concepts related to early warning systems and anticipatory action programming in Mali. These visuals will support engagement and understanding among community leaders and members, including those with limited literacy. The project leader will provide a verbal description of things that should be included within each of the 12 drawings.
Activities and tasks
Under the direction of the project lead, the consultant will:
Participate in a briefing session with the project team to understand the themes and intended use of the visuals.
Review written descriptions of each of the 12 images to be created, including examples of the concepts each image should convey (e.g. floods, community preparations for floods, weather forecasts, distribution of aid).
Produce a first draft of each image based on the description provided. These drafts may be hand-drawn or digital but must be reflective of rural communities in Mali.
Incorporate feedback from project team, including revisions to ensure cultural and contextual appropriateness, visual clarity, and technical accuracy.
Deliver final illustrations in color in high-resolution digital format suitable for print and digital use.
The artist must be open to revisions to images if necessary.
Deliverables and timeline
Deliverable
Description
Timeline
Draft illustrations
First draft of all 12 illustrations, either in black and white or in color.
Within 6 weeks of contract start
Revised illustrations
Revised versions based on consolidated feedback
Within 3 weeks of receiving feedback
Final illustrations
12 high-resolution, publication-ready illustrations in color in digital format (PNG or SVG preferred)
Within 12 weeks of contract start
Required qualifications and experience
Must be based in Mali
Proven experience as an illustrator, visual artist, or graphic designer with a portfolio of original, hand-drawn or digital works (must be included in the application)
Ability to translate technical concepts into visual storytelling
Experience working on development, humanitarian, or community-centered projects preferred
Excellent responsiveness to feedback and attention to detail
Ability to communicate in English helpful, but not required
Application requirements
Applicants should submit the following:
A letter of interest describing relevant experience and availability
A portfolio (PDF or link) of original illustrations
A CV or artist biography highlighting relevant work
A budget proposal that includes estimated cost per drawing or overall package
Two references or samples of prior work with NGOs, development organizations, or similar initiatives (if available)
Deadline to apply: July 21, 2025.