Renowned biologist E.O. Wilson wanted scientific illustrations for his book Tales from the Ant World, in which he shares personal stories and highlights fifteen ant species that had an impact on him during his long and impressive career. We worked with him to create scientifically accurate pen and ink illustrations of these species by referencing pinned specimens under high-powered microscopes at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences. It was a great privilege to work with him on what would be his last published book.