When I stumbled across a seasonal freelance opportunity with an organization that makes the work of self-publishing accessible for diverse authors, I was immediately hooked. I love to read, and I love book cover design.
Over the spring, I met 3 unique authors who were publishing their first or newest collection of poetry. Community Literature Initiative manages the project and leads art direction, contracting with a selection of cover designers, interior designers, and editors who volunteer their time to elevate these emergent voices.
For each client, we had an initial video call where we discussed the subject matter of their collection, and any cover design styles and colors that they gravitated toward. They supplied their own author portrait, and any photos of their own that they wished included in the illustration, as well as a description, and cover blurbs. I developed 3 concepts for each author, and they then selected one direction that was selected by a fine tuning.
Book cover design is a trust exercise. These authors trusted me to cover their fought-for words in a way that doesn't misrepresent their intentions, or betray their own artistic confidence. I'm forever honored.
