Leaves of Grass Case Study
Background
I chose to create a contemporary rendition of Walt Whitman’s Leaves of Grass. I began this project studying the anatomy and history of the written word, in order to create a thoughtful rendition.
Project Brief
During a Publication Design course at California State University, Chico, I was tasked to design, print, bind, and produce two copies of a physical book, as well as an interactive Ebook complementing the printed copies.
Design Solution & Strategy
Throughout Leaves of Grass, Whitman uses simple and unadorned language to ensure that everyone can access his art and truly understand. The simplicity and raw energy of his words is mirrored throughout the minimalistic design approach in this rendition, and played a key role in the selection of natural elements and binding choices.
Research
When getting to know my author, I learned that history remembers Walt Whitman as one of America’s most significant 19th-century poets, despite his work being largely misunderstood by his peers of the time. He was known as a poet who wrote openly about love, sex, and his status as a working-class man. Leaves of Grass was a revolutionary poetic feat that underwent a total of eight editions during his lifetime.
Challenges
Breaking away from traditional materials used for book binding added an extra element of research, challenge, and trial and error. I utilized 100% recycled hardwood floor scraps, bound by an open coptic stitch binding.
Process & Materials
Indesign, Illustrator, Laser Engraver, Coptic Stitch, and Waxed Linen Thread