This project involves the creation of unique record sleeves for a fictitious record label and its bands, blending classical design techniques with contemporary aesthetics. By drawing inspiration from iconic designers like Vaughan Oliver and Peter Saville, and integrating modern design principles, the goal is to produce visually striking and conceptually rich record sleeves that reflect the nature of the bands music.

Record sleeve design has always been an integral part of the music industry, serving as both a visual representation of the music and a marketing tool. Designers like Mark Farrow revolutionised album art with his innovative and often minimalistic designs for The Pet Shop Boys, setting a high standard for visual storytelling in music.

To achieve these goals, I have conducted research on classical and modern design techniques, analysing key works by influential designers. Initial concepts will be brainstormed and sketched, focusing on how classical and modern elements can be blended. Both traditional methods, such as hand-drawn illustrations and collages, and modern tools, like digital illustration and photo editing software, will be used to bring the concepts to life.

The outcome is a collection of record sleeves, each of which has been created using a different medium (screen printing, laser cutting, digital print, barrier grid animation and stickers). This will create a visual identity that captures the essence of the fictitious bands and their diverse music. Through this project, a deeper understanding of how historical and contemporary design practices can inform and enhance each other will be achieved. The final outcome of this work is a pop up record store within which my designs are displayed.