Visual Language LLC

Writing and Design by Ellen M Shapiro

Powerful New Treatments

ContraFect developed new approaches to destroying drug-resistant​ pathogens that cause hospital-based infections​ and disease epidemics. The corporate symbol we developed​ has three layers of meaning: a petri dish with disappearing​ pathogens, a globe, and an abstract ‘C.’

The site opened with a fast animation of the types of pathogens, including drug-resistant​ staphylococcus (MRSA), that ContraFect scientists were working on eliminating in hospital settings. As the bacteria and viruses disappeared, the words “powerful new treatments” appeared.
We designed the office and lab signage, including the entrance wall logo, beautifully manufactured in copper.

Signage included​ values posters framed​ and hung in the offices​, the lab, and the employee lounge. I used a combination of stock images and my own photos shot in ContraFect‘s lab.

This piece introduced the scientific and medical community to ContraFect’s mission, business plans, board of directors, and leadership. It included graphics that demonstrated how lysins can kill anthrax is two minutes.
A clinical study of the efficacy and safety of Exebacase for the treatment​ of staphylococcus aureus bloodstream Infections, was announced by this series of posters that, following protocol, we mailed in fully designed packages to participating hospitals across the country. Called the Disrupt Study, our work began with design of the sunburst logo. The little bacterium guy who’s getting blasted in the posters, illustrated by John Hersey, became the mascot.
ContraFect employees demonstrated their excitement by wearing Disrupt buttons and hoodies. Buttons were included in the packages sent to hospitals.