We were approached by American publishing house Harper Collins to design the book cover of A Song Of Wraiths And Ruin, the first in a fantasy duology inspired by West African folklore, from debut author Roseanne A. Brown. With art direction by Jessie Gang, the brief was to create a lettering piece that complemented the work of photography-based artist Twany Chatmon while finding inspirations on elements of African folk culture.

Finding the composition
Our process started with small thumbnail sketches to find a composition that would enhance the portrait of the main character.

Adding layers of embellishment
Decorative elements contributed to create a cohesive piece.

Finding inspiration in the image
The movement in the picture informed some of the features of the letter shapes.

Creating a cohesive composition
Some of the elements of the illustration were reworked as decorative elements within the lettering.

See the finished project here.