The indie author, James Casmort wanted an illustration for the first book of the sci-fi trilogy he wrote, The Sea, The Stares, and the War.
My Contributions
I illustrated the book cover and designed the layout of the text. Through a series of revisions and perusing the text, the fiery and grim visual was chosen for the book. It showcases the metaphorical and literal translation of the title and the contents of the story.
Casmort contacted me with a potential project for a series he finished writing. It was never meant for large-scale production but for his bookcase and the small followers he made. Throughout the interview process, we discussed about what he envisioned in his hands. He was looking for an illustrative style that moves away from the realistic or comic-like designs often seen on sci-fi media.
1 Month
Project Timeline
Define
Thumbnail Sketches
After reviewing the text, I ideate several compositions for the front cover. I picked the best three ideas that fit within Casmort's needs and wants. I presented him with rough color sketches representing, the alien, the desert, and the fire.
Ideate
Expand Idea
During design discussions, Casmort was more drawn towards the fire versions. In his words, he wanted the cover to have both dread and hope. He placed emphasis on wanting the focus on the characters and their actions. It was also referenced his favorite part of the book.
Variations
The paper cutout style was the chosen medium. The title can interact with the layers while still making the long title pronounce and legible to readers. Casmort had made an off-hand comment of burning the paper and I incorporated it into the final design.
Refinement
Making it real
Reflections
The Sea of Fire
This was a project that the client provided great flexibility in visual direction. It was incredible working hand-in-hand with Casmort throughout the process. I found great insight in learning new techniques for photography and editing. The author by the greatest source of inspiration for the final design.
