For one of my summer classes, I was tasked to create a book cover for my final project. The project states the following criteria: Create a custom book cover based on any current or past publication, novel, movie, or tv series. Using applications of typography and graphic design, create the following; Front Cover, Spine, Rear Cover.

I decided to create my book covers based on the tv series “Archive 81”, which followed an archivist on his journey to uncovering hidden mysteries as he repairs and restores old video tapes. To pay a homage to the series, I decided to create a book cover that looks like an old VHS tape, with an appearance of makeshift repairs using tape.

To create my selection of covers, I utilized an old VHS tape and destroyed it to the best of my abilities. I did this using a knife, and was careful to make dents, tears and scratches to both the surface and pieces of tape I attached to each cover. This created a shredded, ripped, and grungy look that reflects the atmosphere and theme depicted in the show.

I then moved to the digital world by scanning each side of the VHS tape, and proceeded to use Photoshop to start labelling the typographic elements. I used two typefaces that were extremely messy and graphic to label the titles, author section and description. I also used a custom Photoshop brush I created with a mixture red colouring to enhance the covers by creating a blood splatter effect. Finally, I used a series of grunge textures in an overlay blending mode to create more depth and texture for each cover.