We bridge science and art to make insight matter.
The Apostrophe
Design is a language, and even the smallest mark can carry meaning. Here are our values, punctuated.
WHY APOSTROPHE ONE?
The name comes from the small mark in Valentina’s surname. A grammatical detail that always sparks questions and, over time, became a symbol of our work.
An apostrophe signals connection, omission, and ownership. That’s what we do with data: connect dots, surface what’s hidden, and help people own their story.
APOSTROPHE
Knowledge is Power
Design is a catalyst for change. We help people see clearly, understand deeply, and act with confidence.
COLON
Clarity over Simplicity
We don’t dumb things down. We clarify. We visualise data to reflect the richness of the world, without flattening it.
QUESTION MARK
Problem Seeking
We ask before we answer. We examine data from multiple angles to expose bias, uncover hidden stories and challenge assumptions.
EXCLAMATION MARK
Expert Curiosity
Two decades of experience – yet we feel like we’re just getting started. Curiosity, wonder, and care drive every project.
DASH
Breaking the Mould
No templates. No shortcuts. Every design is crafted to let the data speak and connect with its audience
Public speaking
From Adobe MAX to The Royal Institution, Valentina’s keynotes inspire audiences to see data differently – as a lens to widen perspectives and a language that connects people.
Keynotes
From keynote stages to panel discussions, I speak about data storytelling, visual thinking, and the creative process behind complex information design.
Awards & Recognition
2024
Silver, Junior Design Awards
Shortlist, The Week Junior
Silver, Infographic and Dataviz, European Design Awards
Shortlist, Educational Books, British Book Design and Production Awards
2019
NotableSpeculative Design Award, Core77 Design Awards
Data Obscura Exhibition in London, sponsored by the Economist
2019
Winner, Technology & Telecoms, World Media Awards
Nominee, Best Data Visualization, The Webby Awards
Shortlist, Sport Websites, Clio Awards
Winner Gold, Sports, Information is Beautiful Awards
2014
Outstanding Achievement Award, IMA
Shortlist, Site of the Day, The FWA
Honorable Mention, Awwwards
Honorable Mention, Information is Beautiful Awards
2013
Winner Visual Communication, Core77 Design Awards
Bronze, European Design Awards
Bronze, Malofiej22
… and more
Our Books
Valentina’s best-selling books have reached thousands of readers worldwide, helping them see complex topics in a new light.
If you’d like to feature Valentina or her work in your magazine or online publication, feel free to get in touch. The answer is usually yes, provided permission can be given via email without requiring extensive forms. Response time is typically within two weeks.
Click the photos below to download high-resolution images.
Short bio
Valentina D’Efilippo is an award-winning designer, creative director, and co-author of The Infographic History of the World and Britannica’s Encyclopedia Infographica. She leads Masterclasses and consults for global brands and startups.
Long bio
Valentina D’Efilippo is an award-winning designer, creative director, and author renowned for her ability to inspire, move, and connect people through data-driven experiences. Her work includes the critically acclaimed The Infographic History of the World and the innovative Britannica’s Encyclopedia Infographica, a children’s encyclopedia filled with facts and infographics about the universe, wildlife, and human anatomy. Her creativity and insight have led to collaborations with diverse organisations — from startups to global brands — across fields and formats including theatre performances, exhibitions, books, and digital platforms. Beyond her projects, Valentina is passionate about education and knowledge sharing. She coaches corporate teams including the Financial Times, Google, and Spotify, and teaches at institutions such as Columbia Business School and Central Saint Martins. Since 2013 she has also been running popular Masterclasses on visual storytelling. Her work has been internationally exhibited and is part of the permanent collection at the Weltmuseum in Vienna. In recognition of her influence and innovation, she was named one of Campaign’s 30 Future Creative Female Leaders in 2018.