Study task 3 - typesetting

Initial Ideas

This concept played with the fact of how genetically similar we are to bananas, and added a playful element with a colourful colour scheme and a dominant illustration. The only issue is that the cover doesn't use an actual image of a banana, which makes it look quite flat. Also, the illustration covers up a large portion of the text which affects legibility. 

This design focused on type entirely, and explored the idea of the book containing lots of information in one small space; hence the cramped atmosphere and text running off the page. Visually, however, it lacks the fun nature I want to portray, so would need developing further. 

I really don't like this design as it looks super flat and simply navigates the idea of a black hole; the concept is way too literal and the text looks boring. I think I will probably scrap the idea of black holes as I don't want to treat the audience like idiots. 

This experiment tested different ways of manipulating text, so I played a bit with a 3D rendered style on photoshop. I don't think that this design is really strong enough to continue/ develop as it doesn't have a connection to the book itself nor does it have a playful atmosphere. 

These designs explored the idea of the universe expanding - like a balloon. I think the concept itself is very fitting as it has that playful atmosphere I want to create; however, these designs so far don't really work as a double page spread, nor do they have a contemporary style, in my opinion. 

This illustrative concept portrays the fact that Einstein poked himself in the eye with a needle just to simply see what it did; the concept behind this captures the idea of Bill Brysons curiosity and general curiosity within science history. However, the general visuals of this design are very flat and the colour palette is arguably too feminine for the books audience. 

Crit feedback

• try photographing an actual banana to make the design look less flat 
• actually print the type on the balloon to create a more immersive design 
• photograph the needle/eye design instead of illustrating it 
• some of the designs look too childish?