Album covers

Initially I took it upon myself to conduct some initial research upon album covers and other artists interpretations of Etta. I did this to allow myself a clear perspective surrounding what is already available within this industry.

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An illustrative interpretation in which attempts to magnify beauty and charisma. This interpretation depicts Etta in a sexualised manner, whereby aspects of her natural beauty have been exaggerated. Her eyes appear softer, and much lighter than they are naturally thus transmitting a seductive ambiance, this may also be applied to her costume, and also the thinning of her facial shape. The main factor in which contributes to controversy surrounding this image, is the obvious attempt to lighten Etta's skin colour. This entire sentiment contradicting the impact of Etta and her relationship with the civil rights movement. 

An iconic landscape paired with visual interpretations of rhythm, this cover displays an insight of the album's inner movement. The circle structure may be interpreted in multiple ways, for example New York being placed upon the top of the music world, or even the simplistic idea of a record's shape. The vast amounts of negative space surrounding the image, constitutes to the images impact, as the consumer must subconsciously search for the images and texts placement. 

Impact is key within this design as it takes a concept and strips it back to its most simplest format. A three tonal approach is then used in compliance to this format, to allow all aspects of the design to maintain a minimalistic nature. No typography is displayed on the cover, and thus creates an enigma in which the customer is consumed. 

The usage of shapes and opacity is the contributing factor to this album's aesthetic appeal. The overlapping structure allows a sense of continuity to be exhibited, as well as expressing the concept of intertwining sounds being present within the music genre of the album.

Three dimensional designs are rarely produced for album covers, hence why this design appears so appealing. The raindrop shape captivates the landscape, in which is constructed from layers of coloured card. The centralisation of the image is similar to that of the New Order album, as thus creates the same impact.

Photomontage when produced correctly can appear highly effective, and may convey a variation of responses. In this circumstance I feel it suggests a variation of emotions due to the facial expressions exposed.