SB3 - Initial Ideas

The brief of the competition asks to create a cover that visually represents the book itself. With the Multi-layered approach of the book and the many layers of genres it entails I wanted to create a final outcome that visually represented these layers. The outcome will visually tell the story of the book through the key characters and scenes. The target audience for this book is 18 years and up due to the maturity of the book - so the outcome will reflect a style that is sophisticated yet still visually appealing to the younger target audience. Initial sketches look at ways in which this can be done, through the use of a simple layered vector designs, layered paper and mixed media such as watercolour to further represent the layering approach. The key design foundation that will be explored in development of initial ideas, is the inclusion of the main character ‘Toru’ this is because the whole book itself is written in first person, and the idea of the elements becoming or consuming his silhouette represents the ways in which key characters and moments in the book define who he is.

these designs look at the ways in which the portraits of the people in Toru's life can be placed within his silhouettes, forming layers amongst layers.

An idea of illustrating the film cover - however that wouldn't be 'extraordinary' or be a completely unique design idea from me. 

Layering of torus silhouette with trying to display the Japanese flag, could be done through collage or illustration. Possibly a red pray paint dot - a more modernised approach that could add depth and texture. The type could be placed vertically to mimic old Japanese scripture, or patterns made could be created from traditional Japanese ink drawings but in a modernised way - paying homage the Murakami and the books context.

A play on composition of characters inside silhouette, or in negative space. Angled face looks at expressing Toru's behaviour throughout the book - inner turmoil and conflict.