Very Short Introductions
Editorial
Client
Oxford University Press
Deliverables
Three paperback book covers
Brief
As part of one of my second year university projects, I was required to develop paperback book covers for a set of three ‘A Very Short Introduction’ (VSI) texts by Oxford University Press.
This was a hypothetical project, but required multiple visits and discussions with senior designers at OUP. The covers would be marketed in the set as a special release, and required a special finish, such as embossing, foiling, UV spot laminate, or spot colours.
I chose to redesign the texts discussing witchcraft, fairy tales, and magic from the VSI series, for their shared themes of the supernatural.
Solution
The design process focused on emphasising the magical topics that linked all three titles, which led me to explore artefacts associated with sorcery and whimsy. In particular, the history and meaning of tarot cards was highly relevant as tarot cards link to witchcraft as a form of divination, and are perceived as a magical object. In addition, tarot cards and fairy tales both convey themes of fate and storytelling.
Therefore, this became the basis of the designs, and I created illustrations featuring the traditional sun, moon, and star motifs on tarot cards to represent each book topic.
The front and back covers mimic both sides of a tarot card to create a subtle illusion. The magical quality of the designs was equally enhanced through applying gold, silver, and copper heat-activated foils.
