Underbug: Photography

• Date added

24 November 2025

Underbug creates 3D-printed clay shelters for insects such as ladybirds, beetles, and lacewings, bringing attention to species often overlooked in insect conservation.

London- and Rotterdam-based design studio Twice Shy developed the visual identity for Underbug, supporting the project’s mission to highlight these smaller, often forgotten species.

Client

Underbug

Year

2025

Twice Shy Studio

Designer

Twice Shy Studio

Photographer

Harel + Ocante

Post Production

Studio Wolfram

Typefaces in Use

Approach

The name Underbug, a play on the word “underdog”, was chosen to spotlight insects that are often overlooked yet vital to ecosystems. The identity reflects a bold, punk-inspired attitude, placing insects at the centre of attention.

Underbug: First designs
Underbug: Ladybird house
Underbug: Archival imagery
Underbug: Photography
Underbug: Photography
Underbug: Photography
Design

GT Pressura Mono was selected to reflect the raw, DIY spirit of retro punk zines. Its rough edges and bold forms reference the urgency of protest boards and activist posters. In all caps, the typeface asserts itself, demanding attention rather than asking for it. Three character mascots, Coco the Ladybird, Chrissa the Lacewing, and Ansel the Dragonfly, sit at the centre of the packaging, giving Underbug a lively and relatable voice. Photography by Harel + Ocante placed the habitats in unexpected urban settings, creating a striking contrast between delicate insects and stark architectural environments.

Underbug: WIP logo
Underbug: Logo
Underbug: Logo explorations
Underbug: Logo colours
Underbug: Packaging
Underbug: System overview
Underbug: Packaging
Underbug: Mobile
Underbug: Website
Underbug: Illustration explorations
Underbug: Packaging
Underbug: Character design
Underbug: Zine overview
Underbug: Zine
Underbug: Zine
Underbug: Zine
Underbug: Zine

Twice Shy

Founded in 2025, Twice Shy was born from a desire to create and collaborate with people who appreciate great design in any form. The studio isn’t about playing it safe or avoiding risks, but about working with those who value creative bravery and back it with expertise and experience.

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