Client: The New York Times Book Review

Brief:
Design an editorial illustration for The New York Times Book Review, based on the novel “You Made a Fool of Death With Your Beauty” by Akwaeke Emenzi. Capture the essence of a young widow stumbling into new life and romance while grieving her past love.

Solution:
I created three draft sketches using both Photoshop and Illustrator, each interpreting the brief from different perspectives. I collaborated with the Art Director to select the piece that most clearly conveyed the main idea of the article. Using the feedback provided, I refined the final piece, resulting in a powerful and on-topic editorial illustration that effectively engages readers and drives interest in the book.

Process:

• Sketching: Developed and presented three draft sketches, each offering a unique interpretation of the novel’s themes.
• Collaboration: Worked with the Art Director to choose the most impactful sketch.
• Feedback Integration: Incorporated feedback to refine and perfect the final illustration.
• Final Illustration: Produced a compelling and engaging editorial illustration that resonates with readers.

Deliverables:

• Editorial illustration for The New York Times Book Review

Software Used:

• Adobe Illustrator
• Adobe Photoshop

Presenting: The New York Times Book Review, “You Made a Fool of Death With Your Beauty”

Impact:
The final editorial illustration effectively captured the essence of “You Made a Fool of Death With Your Beauty,” engaging readers and enhancing their connection to the novel through a visually compelling interpretation.

Who I Worked With:
Catherine Gilmore-Barnes – Art Director – The New York Times

(To read the full article: Click Here!)