OUGD503 - Penguin Student Design Award - Evaluation

Researching into previous winning entries and looking at the profiles of the judges allowed me to identify what they are looking for in a winning design. I focused a lot of my concept on the fact that the judges are looking for a fresh perspective and to avoid repeating the obvious iconography from the many previous editions in print. This gave me the confidence to explore more ambiguous compositions using typography as the main focus. Having created the typographic weavings I still had unexplored concepts that had potential, however considering the amount of competition briefs I was tackling, I made the decision to go forward and explore material processes such as screen printing.

Already having in depth knowledge of the story put me at an advantage as the themes and concerns throughout the book provided useful inspiration for an original concepts. I based my cover on the fact that the book is narrated from Jem's point of view, the youngest of the Finch family, and how her idealistic view of the world just isn't true. By weaving the names of the mockingbirds that are uncovered throughout the story not only creates a visually engaging outcome but also communicates the blurred perceptions of society throughout 1930s America. Through feedback I was recommended Cecil Toochan, a fine artist who deconstructs type through weaving which meant that I was able to research into methods of applying type over the top of the chaotic contrast of shape and negative space.

I struggled with the blurb because I wanted the cover to be cohesive from back to front. However my research into previous editions gave me an insight into the artistic and expressive methods of typesetting encouraged me to break the grid. This research, combined with my knowledge on the events of the book, helped me to develop the half drop typesetting. I found having a definitive concept to work with allowed me to work effectively.

I feel the overall outcome is successful due to the fact it is well informed by the themes and concerns within the book and also material from the 1930s.