Publication Design
The project involved choosing a title from a list of 1,000 and designing a book based on that concept. This included developing a theme, conducting research, creating original content
like writing and photography, and experimenting with layout and design. The final goal was
to produce a cohesive, visually engaging book that reflected the chosen title.
Project The project involved researching EDM culture, documenting concerts through photography, and exploring how drugs and visual tools heighten the experience. The final book blends images, filters, and narrative to recreate the intense atmosphere of a rave.
Role
Publication Designer, Print Maker and Researcher
Timeline
7 Weeks
Tools
Adobe Illustrator , Adobe Photography and Adobe InDesign
Size8.5 inches x 5.5 inches
17.0 inches by 11.0 inches
Grid: 4 columns
Margins: 0.5 inches on each side
Gutter: 0.1667 inches
The project involved researching EDM concert culture, particularly the psychological and sensory effects of drug use and visual enhancement tools like diffraction glasses. It included collecting personal accounts to understand the emotional landscape of attendees, as well as photographing actual concerts to capture the raw energy and atmosphere. The design process integrated these images with visual filters and effects to mimic the altered perception experienced at raves. The final product was a carefully curated book that combines narrative, photography, and design to immerse readers in the intense, otherworldly vibe of an EDM event.
MoodBoard:
An EDM concert is all about bright lights, constant motion, high energy, and a joyful atmosphere.
Version 1:
- Research into the different titles that stood out to me, which included title such as The Definition of Shadow, Resentful Nutcase, and the Definiton of Intensity.
Critique Notes
-
Then chosing a narrative involving EDM culture, documenting concerts through photography, and exploring how drugs and visual tools heighten the experience.
Version 1:
- After choosing a topic, I began trying to depict a concert—specifically the EDM group and music setting, by using colorful concert images and fonts that were specific to the EDM aesthetic.
Critique Notes Signature 1:
- Typography and image
layout look out of place.
-
Keep experimenting
with the front cover
idea on other pages.
-
Body text looks awkward
and weird.
-
Images still look off; try
experimenting with the
type size—it’s too big.
-
Images are a bit blurry.
- Try playing with filters
more and incorporating
image blur into the
images.
Critique Notes Signature 2:
- Good use of images.
- Keep thinking about how the user will interact with theimages.
- You might need something indicating when the user should use the glasses.
-
Images are still a bit too blurry.
- Try test printing to see if and how your folds will work.
- The title is effective, but keep experimenting with the body text.
Critique Notes Signature 3:
• Images showcase too much of the stage and
need to feature more from the people/crowd
perspective as well.
• Think about how the pages will fold out.
The project faced several key challenges, starting with switching from coptic to saddle stitch binding to improve usability, which was then sewn by hand to reflect the DIY spirit of EDM culture. Selecting the right paper stock was also difficult, leading to the use of three different types to enhance the tactile experience and distinguish sections. Printing large spreads proved frustrating, with multiple misprints causing delays. Finding a cover material that captured the bold, vibrant energy of EDM events was another hurdle, as was sourcing properly sized visual filters—ultimately resolved by incorporating rave-style glasses into the design.
Goal:
To capture and share the immersive, high-energy atmosphere of EDM concerts and the community surrounding them—highlighting both the vibrant creativity and the complex role of drugs in shaping the experience.
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Body Text: Source Sans Pro
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abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz!@#$%^&*(){}[]:;”’?
Subheader Text 1: Josefin Sans
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abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz!@#$%^&*(){}[]:;”’?
Subheader Text 2:
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format to make it easy to hold, similar to a coffee table book, allowing the user to experience the content in a more comfortable and accessible way.
DEFINITION OF EDM:
- An EDM (Electronic Dance Music) concert is a live music event featuring electronic dance music performed by DJs
or producers using synthesizers, drum machines, and turntables.
- The focus is on electronic beats and rhythms, often accompanied by synchronized visuals and special effects.
KEY FEATURES EDM Group:
- Live DJ Performances:
- DJs mix tracks live, often improvising and blending popular songs with original productions.
- Visual Effects:
- Stunning light shows, lasers, LED displays, and projections that sync with the music.
- Special Effects:
- Smoke machines, pyrotechnics, confetti cannons, and sometimes holographic visuals.
- Immersive Sound:
- High-quality sound systems that deliver powerful bass and clear audio.
- Unique Stages:
- Intricate stage designs with futuristic or themed aesthetics.
- Interactive Elements:
- Audience participation, call-and-response moments, and often themed accessories (e.g., glow sticks).
EDM ATMOSPHERE:
- Energetic:
- High-energy environment with fast-paced music and a crowd dancing intensely.
- Vibrant:
- Bright, neon colors and eclectic fashion styles (e.g., rave wear).
- Inclusive:
- A welcoming atmosphere for people from all backgrounds to enjoy music and connect.
- Euphoric:
- The music and visuals create a sense of unity and exhilaration among attendees.
- Party-like:
- It often feels like a massive celebration, with a focus on fun and letting loose.
- Late Night/Weekend Vibes:
- Typically occurs at night and stretches into the early hours, emphasizing nightlife culture.
The image manipulation involved several techniques, including motion blur to capture
the dynamic movement of the crowd and performers. I also adjusted the saturation
and vibrancy to enhance the colors and energy of the scenes. Additionally, I overlaid
multiple images to create a sense of depth and visual interest. A few artistic filters were
layered on top of the images to introduce a different kind of motion and texture, further
emphasizing the vibrant, fast-paced nature of the EDM environment. The original
images were taken by me, capturing the essence of the event firsthand.
The image manipulation involved several techniques, including motion blur to capture
the dynamic movement of the crowd and performers. I also adjusted the saturation
and vibrancy to enhance the colors and energy of the scenes. Additionally, I overlaid
multiple images to create a sense of depth and visual interest. A few artistic filters were
layered on top of the images to introduce a different kind of motion and texture, further
emphasizing the vibrant, fast-paced nature of the EDM environment. The original
images were taken by me, capturing the essence of the event firsthand.
Solution:
The final book was designed using immersive visuals, sewn saddle stitch binding for full-page engagement, multi-textured paper to enhance sensory interaction, and a flashy, concert-inspired cover. Personal photography, interviews, and the integration of rave-style glasses brought the viewer closer to the authentic, multifaceted world of EDM culture.
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Designed by Me (Daniel Santos) 2024