Nation of Two Book Collection
Book/Editorial
Book/Editorial
Book/Editorial
Book/Editorial
Book/Editorial
Book/Editorial
Book/Editorial
Book/Editorial
Book/Editorial
Typography
Designer(s)
Leah Fellows
Duration
14 Weeks
Recognitions
A typography based collection of books based on Vance Joy's album Nation of Two
A collection of 4 books based on songs from Vance Joy's album Nation of Two. The books use interesting typefaces and tight leading to reflect the ups and downs of a relationship and bring you along on the journey of two passionate lovers. Coloured paper is introduced to produce maximum emotion impact and emphasize the meanings of each song.
Process
Between my first approach and my final product, I came a very long way. I began the project hoping to incorporate risograph printing and a variety of images but quickly decided that I wanted to go a more simple yet elegant direction. I wanted to let the typefaces speak for the music and to encourage the reader to sing the words as they turn page to page. This desire lead to larger, unique, display typefaces and a more "boring" design. I focused more on understanding the technicalities of typography through the leading and kerning of letters and became more aware of the relationships between words. This process allowed me to experience a new style of design that I will continue to embrace in the future.
Printing and Binding
The process of printing and binding was a fun and challenging experience. Although I went through probably a few trees in mockups (Sorry Earth) I was able to get a good understanding of the printing process and the mistakes that aren't always caught on screen. I used a single signature bind with coloured thread to give the books a more intimate, handmade feel. The physical development of the book design process was definitely the most rewarding as it allowed me to see and feel my own work as a real object.
Book Design Journey
Entering the world of book design was a totally new adventure for me. After my 1st year in the YSDN program I became completely discouraged from taking print classes due to "not being very good at it". Although I felt more comfortable working with digital platforms, this was the year of challenging myself and exploring outside of what I thought I was capable of. Through this experience I actually fell in love with book design and printing and now feel more inclined to continue developing my skills in the print medium outside of graduation. It took me a few weeks to fully grasp it, but now that Ive got ahold of book design I'm not interested in letting go any time soon.
