<aside> 💡 This packaging design project was selected to feature on PACKAGINGOFTHEWORLD

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Contents:

In 2021, I was tasked with creating a book cover as part of my participation in the "Book Illustration" course. This endeavor proved to be both challenging and instrumental in helping me develop my artistic and design skills as a sophomore student.

The book I was assigned to illustrate is titled "Cố định một đám mây" or "Anchored a cloud," which is a short story included in a larger work by Vietnamese author Nguyễn Ngọc Tư. I discovered Nguyễn Ngọc Tư's books when I was 16, and they greatly influenced my artistic sensibilities and shaped my perspective on everyday life. Before conducting any research, I read and reread this particular short story numerous times, immersing myself in its atmosphere, narrative, and the identities of its characters. I aimed to discern subtle hints and metaphors embedded in the author's carefully chosen words.

• “Cố định một đám mây” - “Anchored a cloud” - KEY MESSAGE

1. Introduction:

The short story I am considering focuses on the contemporary literature of modern Vietnamese women's identity, specifically examining the literary career of Nguyễn Ngọc Tư. Nguyễn Ngọc Tư effectively portrays the experiences of South Vietnamese individuals using various mediums, predominantly employing symbols from nature, society, and the body and emotions within the realm of literature. Moreover, Nguyễn Ngọc Tư presents profound insights into the thoughts and perspectives of women in modern society. Consequently, the short story highlights the distinctive ways in which women perceive and engage with the world, while also delving into the depth and complexity of their spiritual and physical existence.

2. Creative Brief:

<aside> 🎆 Design a cover book that illustrates “Cố định một đám mây - Anchored the cloud” mood following with author’s literature identity. There are illustrations for Book cover, Single pages, Facing page, Page Break (Silent pages),Bookmarks, Phone case, Announcement Book Posters.

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3. Art Direction:

• Drawing arrays (digital vectors), using various color strokes that evoke feelings for the viewer suitable for Nguyen Ngoc Tu’s identity.
• Bright gradient colors, warm colors with contrast, create a feeling of lightness and warmth.
• The mood of editorial design is almost simple with core elements (text and image)

⇒ The illustration follows the metaphoric concept.

In the mood of fragile things

The mood of editorial design (minimal tone & concept)

AD for the book cover with 2 flyers

AD for the book pages

4. Art Drafts:

a.The cover book:

b. The page break, the facing pages:

The editorial design of the book prioritizes negative spaces, creating a visually pleasing layout that allows readers to comfortably engage with the written content and enjoy the accompanying illustrations. Additionally, the presence of summer flowers, known as Sò Đo, serves as a symbol of love and memories in the narrative. Nguyễn Ngọc Tư skillfully evokes a sense of loss and tragedy, eliciting emotions from the readers. The central female character, portrayed as a bride during her wedding, makes a decision to escape with her motorcycle, her emotions, and her desire for a free life. Throughout her journey, the flowers (Sò Đo) bear witness, serving as reminders of her lover and prompting introspection of her own inner thoughts and feelings.

c. The single page: