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TESS OF THE D'URBERVILLES

THE BRIEF

This is a Shillington College brief from 2018. The brief was to create a new book cover for a book of our choice, using handmade artwork. I chose Tess of the D'Urbervilles because I was always frustrated by the overtly sexualised, bland covers chosen for such a dark and powerful novel.

MOODBOARDS

Tess's disillusionment and disconnect to her identity is shown through the floating typography and broken up alignment. I also looked at design where there was a strong use of contrast and printmaking techniques

To play, press and hold the enter key. To stop, release the enter key.

PROCESS

To play, press and hold the enter key. To stop, release the enter key.

THE OUTCOME

This book covers many complex themes, from sexual violence, misogyny, religion and class, and it felt important to show Tess's desperate attempts to navigate this impossible journey through her society.

I used lino cut because it is a very physical action that I felt was appropriate to represent Tess's anger and her physical burdens. The use of gold leaf shows her purity of spirit and naivety. It is traced through a maze with no exit or clear path.

Tess's disillusionment and disconnect to her identity is shown through the floating typography and broken up alignment.

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