From exhibit graphics to owl encounters, Blake King brings creativity, humor, and heart to everything he touches at the Museum. As our new Exhibits Supervisor, Blake uses design to tell powerful stories, connect people with science, and bring fresh energy to our visual identity. Meet Blake and learn how he’s blending art and conservation in surprising (and sometimes hilarious) ways.
HOW LONG HAVE YOU WORKED FOR MDWFP’S MISSISSIPPI MUSEUM OF NATURAL SCIENCE?
Four months.
WHAT’S YOUR WORKDAY LIKE?
From the moment I clock in, my brain switches to creative mode. Whether it is crafting a bold graphic for a new exhibit, designing signage for an event that’s both functional and visually striking, or planning new projects for the museum – every day is a balance of design and functionality.
Throughout the day, I collaborate with teams across departments to align on messaging and ensuring our visual identity stays strong and cohesive.
Afternoons are mostly spent scheduling meetings, creating event social media packages, or brainstorming new and creative ways to draw in new visitors. It’s a mix of fast-paced multitasking, problem-solving, and creative expression. I wouldn’t trade what I do for anything.
ANY FUNNY WORK STORIES?
A few months ago, Katie (our Education Coordinator) walked into my office with Griffin, our owl ambassador, perched calmly on her arm, strategically held over the trash can. She casually said, “I just know he’s going to go,” and we started chatting about marketing materials for an upcoming event like it was normal to have an owl hovering over a trash can mid-conversation.
Eventually, she headed out, and sure enough, barely down the hallway, Griffin let it rip. Everywhere. Katie just said, “I knew you’d wait until you weren’t over the trash can.”
I couldn’t stop laughing. Honestly, Griffin has the timing of a stand-up comic.
TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND AND EDUCATION
From a young age, creativity has been at the heart of everything I do. I've always been drawn to the arts and over the years, I’ve explored a vibrant mix of creative disciplines - ranging from drawing, painting, sculpting, and more! I naturally approach every project with an artistic lens, always looking for imaginative solutions and fresh ways to express ideas.
I earned my bachelor’s degree in Computer Multimedia Graphics and Marketing, where I had the opportunity to grow both as an artist and a communicator. During my studies, I was an active member of the National Society for Leadership and Success, worked as a student instructor teaching fellow students how to use Procreate, and proudly served on the Board of Directors for the Historical Association of Greater Cape Girardeau, where I contributed marketing and graphic design expertise.
One of my favorite accomplishments during that time was helping launch the Riverfront Fall Festival in Cape Girardeau. I created the entire visual identity - designing the logo, branding, flyers, posters, banners, and other promotional materials - and managed the event’s social media platforms. The festival's debut drew over 5,000 attendees and was a resounding success!
I’m passionate about what I do and constantly seek opportunities to learn, grow, and create. Whether it’s designing, organizing, or brainstorming something bold and new, I bring energy, curiosity, and a love for visual storytelling to every challenge I take on.
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS CAREER?
I chose a career in graphic design because it allows me to combine my passion for art with a deeper purpose; to communicate, inspire, and create meaningful visual experiences. Creativity has always been a part of who I am, and design feels like a natural extension of that identity.
For me, graphic design isn’t just about making things look good or putting together a flyer, it’s about connection. It’s a powerful tool to tell stories, spark curiosity, and leave a lasting impact on the viewer. Whether I’m designing for education, conservation, or community engagement, I aim to create visuals that do more than catch the eye, they make people feel, think, and take action.
HOW DOES YOUR JOB CONTRIBUTE TO CONSERVATION?
By crafting clear, visually compelling content across print, digital media, and museum displays, I work to bridge the gap between science and community.
When people can see and understand what’s at stake and how they can make a difference, they're far more likely to get involved. That’s where I believe design becomes a powerful tool for change: not just informing, but inspiring action to preserve Mississippi’s natural resources for generations to come.
ANY ADVICE FOR A STUDENT INTERESTED IN A BIOLOGY OR MUSEUM CAREER?
My biggest piece of advice for a student interested in a museum career is to stay curious and open to learning from every angle.
The more you can explore outside the classroom the better.
Volunteer at your local museum, join a science club, attend events with us, and don’t be afraid to ask professionals questions about their work.
Also, don’t overlook the creative side of science. Museums need people who can translate complex topics into engaging experiences whether through exhibits, education, or even social media.