Awarded Gold in the Graphis Poster Awards 2026, One World / One Chihuahuan Desert is a poster series by Antonio Castro H. that brings attention to the often-overlooked species shaping one of North America’s most complex ecosystems. Grounded in the biodiversity of the Chihuahuan Desert, the work uses geometric form and vibrant color to challenge perceptions of desert life while advocating for ecological balance and preservation through design.

Case Study By Antonio Castro H.

I was honored to be one of forty designers from around the globe invited to participate
in Pollinators, a curated poster collection organized by the International Poster Biennial in
Mexico. This initiative sought to highlight the indispensable role of pollinating insects in
sustaining life on Earth. For my contribution, I chose to focus on the unique biodiversity of my
own backyard—the Chihuahuan Desert. The resulting series, titled One World / One Chihuahuan Desert, aimed to celebrate and protect the delicate balance of life in this harsh yet vibrant ecosystem.

My inspiration originated from the rich mosaic of flora and fauna that thrives in the desert. Rather than spotlighting iconic species such as the mountain lion or golden eagle, I turned my attention to lesser-known creatures: a delicate female hummingbird, the striking tarantula hawk wasp, and the resilient earless lizard. These species embody the theme of “One World, One Chihuahuan Desert,” reminding us that every life form, regardless of size or recognition, plays a vital role in the ecosystem. I was captivated by their intricate patterns, vivid colors, and unique textures, as well as their remarkable ability to endure and flourish in an unforgiving environment.

The creative strategy behind the posters was to highlight the beauty and movement of these animals while simplifying their physicality through geometric forms. Color played an equally critical role. While the dictionary defines a desert as “a dry and barren area of land, characteristically desolate, waterless, and without vegetation,” closer observation reveals a world bursting with vibrant hues and intricate details. My goal was to capture this hidden beauty and challenge preconceived notions of desert landscapes.

The final collection debuted in the historic city of Querétaro, Mexico, during the 18th International Poster Biennial. It later traveled to Mexico City, Morelia, and Torreón, reaching diverse audiences across the country. Beyond these exhibitions, I submitted the series to several international design competitions, where it was accepted into prestigious events such as the Lahti International Poster Triennial in Finland, the Bolivia Design & Poster Biennial (BICeBé), and the 2026 Poster Graphis competition. Through these platforms, One World / One Chihuahuan Desert continues to advocate for the preservation of biodiversity and the celebration of life in all its forms.

About Antonio Castro H.

Antonio Castro H. is a Professor of Graphic Design and Illustration in the Department of Art at the University of Texas at El Paso. He earned a BFA in Graphic Design and Printmaking from UTEP and an MFA in Visual Communications from the Tyler School of Art in Philadelphia.
Before entering academia, Antonio worked as a designer with MithoffBurton Inc. in El Paso, Texas, and later as a senior designer and art director at Parham Santana Design in New York City. His professional experience spans a broad range of design disciplines, including book design, packaging, visual identity, posters, and Illustration. Antonio’s award-winning work has been exhibited internationally at prestigious events such as the BICeBé International Poster Biennial in Bolivia, the Colorado International Invitational Poster Exhibition (CIIPE), the International Poster Biennial in Mexico (BICM), the Golden Bee in Moscow, and the International Poster Biennale in Warsaw. He has served as a guest lecturer, juror, and workshop leader at several of these Biennials. He is also the co-founder and co-organizer of Posters Without Borders, an invitational exhibition showcasing work from globally recognized designers. His work has been featured in respected design publications including Print Regional Design Annual and Graphis New Talent, and has received Gold and Platinum awards in the Graphis Poster and Design Annuals from 2021 to 2026.

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