Book Marked, Personal Project

Book Marked is a conceptual project inspired by books that have shaped me at different stages of life—from childhood to adulthood. It explores the imaginative nature of reading and the journey of self-discovery. When designing these book covers, I considered both genre and intended audience, incorporating subtle nods to key elements within each story. In place of traditional author bios, I included personal anecdotes reflecting the long-term impact these stories have had on me.

Personal projects like this allow me to stretch creative muscles and develop new skills, which naturally carry over into my professional work. Below are 3D renderings and flat designs of each cover.

I began with research into historical book design and studied contemporary designers to establish a strong foundation before moving into the design phase. Using a combination of Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign—alongside hand collage and illustration techniques—I brought each cover to life. I then printed, cut, and wrapped the designs onto physical hardback books. Being hands-on in this way was an essential part of the creative process.