| Author |
 Topic  |
|
Cult_Of_Frank
= Black Noise Maker =
Canada
11687 Posts |
 Posted - 04/26/2005 : 21:19:48
|
Nice to have you aboard, 007, I hope you don't feel like a bogie :).
I'm sure everyone here would be more than delighted to have some insight into what goes into choosing cover art for Frank as this is something we've had little coverage of through the years. What did you have for alternate designs and do what was your thinking on this one in particular?
 "Joined the Cult of Frank / And you'll be enlightened" |
 |
|
|
vilainde
>> Denizen of the Citizens Band <<
Niue
7441 Posts |
Posted - 04/27/2005 : 08:16:00
|
Hell, the current high bid is £41... That makes a bit more than $78... Did anyone here bid for it?
Denis
"His chops are too righteous. The helmets can't handle this level of rock 'n' roll. Karen, do something!" |
|
|
|
bogie007
- FB Fan -
7 Posts |
Posted - 04/27/2005 : 08:29:39
|
Hi Everyone-
This has been a strange but oddly thrilling experience, reading what people think about my work, especially before I posted my first response. It's too bad that some people don't think it does justice to songs on the album (fbc) or that it looks like "fossilized tortilla chips" (floop), but everyone has a different aesthetic and a very personal response to the album, so that's okay. So, to answer the burning question on everyone's mind: the font is American Typewriter. As for why Frank chose this particular cover, you'll have to ask him, I can only speak to what I was thinking when I made it and don't want to put words in his mouth. The whole idea behind the abstract nature of the cover has to do with trying to translate how the album sounds (how it sounds to me, anyway) into a purely visual language. I didn't want to use recognizable symbols (like a beehive or something) because I wanted that visual language to be unique to the album. I feel like the music says something uniquely individual, and I wanted the cover art to reflect this by using only color and texture. I chose the warm colors b/c, to me, they invoke a bunch of important aspects of the album: where is was recorded, the type of musicians that play on it, the overall sound of the music, and the lyrics. Okay, so that was my attempt at articulating the ideas behind the cover. I sort of hate doing this because you just can't avoid sounding pretentious when trying to explain artwork, and pretentious people are lame. Thanks for all the feedback on the cover, it's given me a lot to chew on... |
|
|
|
vilainde
>> Denizen of the Citizens Band <<
Niue
7441 Posts |
Posted - 04/27/2005 : 08:40:21
|
quote:
Originally posted by bogie007
It's too bad that some people don't think it does justice to songs on the album (fbc) or that it looks like "fossilized tortilla chips" (floop)
In floop's mind, I believe this must be taken as a compliment, you know...
Denis
"His chops are too righteous. The helmets can't handle this level of rock 'n' roll. Karen, do something!" |
|
|
|
billgoodman
>> Denizen of the Citizens Band <<
Netherlands
6197 Posts |
Posted - 04/27/2005 : 08:45:30
|
I think Brown is the only color that can do Honeycomb justice
that's the way I dreamed it months ago too
 "I joined the cult of Jon Tiven/Bye!" |
|
|
|
fbc
-= Modulator =-
United Kingdom
4903 Posts |
Posted - 04/27/2005 : 09:18:50
|
quote:
Originally posted by bogie007
Hi Everyone-
It's too bad that some people don't think it does justice to songs on the album (fbc)
I meant does justice as in there's not much going on except the main image and the obvious text. I read somewhere only days earlier FB doesn't really put much emphasis into his covers, only if he knew it was going to shift more units than what he's use to would he probably care more.
Honeycomb is an amazing record he's made, I thought, sorry presumed this cover would be a little more interesting. Now you've explained it a little (which I/we really appreciate too) I understand it a little more, but I didn't have your insight. All I have to go on is what's placed in front of me on this screen. Like you said, the ebay pic doesn't really show the colour and texture at it's best, I can't wait to see it in all it's glory.
quote:
but everyone has a different aesthetic and a very personal response to the album, so that's okay.
As the crazy fan I am I don't just anticipate the music, I love the whole package. The cover, the inlay, what's included in the liner notes the lot. I'm interested in graphics away from music and apart of it too. A bit obsessive for sure, but just a fan thing I guess.
|
Edited by - fbc on 05/04/2005 08:34:58 |
|
|
|
The Holiday Son
= Quote Accumulator =
France
2009 Posts |
Posted - 04/27/2005 : 10:31:34
|
| Just to say that I like the artwork very much. It might even be my favourite (with Frank Black Francis). |
|
|
|
Cult_Of_Frank
= Black Noise Maker =
Canada
11687 Posts |
Posted - 04/27/2005 : 10:36:13
|
Also, I defer all expertise in the font area to Chicken and apologize for ever doubting.
"Joined the Cult of Frank / And you'll be enlightened" |
|
|
|
n/a
deleted
4109 Posts |
Posted - 04/27/2005 : 10:46:50
|
quote:
Originally posted by bogie007
I sort of hate doing this because you just can't avoid sounding pretentious when trying to explain artwork, and pretentious people are lame. Thanks for all the feedback on the cover, it's given me a lot to chew on...
Bogie007,
Your work is wonderful, it's my favourite FB's artwork so far. And I know it must be very difficult to see so many people talking about your work/art, and even more difficult, being here explaining all this to us.
So, thank you for that.
(art should not be explained)
If you could be anything that you want to be,
do you think that you would be who you see in the mirror?
|
Edited by - n/a on 04/27/2005 10:52:12 |
|
|
|
Carl
- A 'Fifth' Catholic -
Ireland
11546 Posts |
Posted - 04/27/2005 : 10:52:06
|
| I like the cover too, it's simply and effective. It also suggests the work of bees, somehow, the smooth, cracked waxy effect. (I know that sounds really silly, but it kind of does to me!! |
|
|
|
fbc
-= Modulator =-
United Kingdom
4903 Posts |
Posted - 04/27/2005 : 11:00:40
|
Hey 007, is the image on the front made from scratch, or is it a close-up of something? I'm sorry for the lame question, I don't think it's been asked. It never even entered my thoughts this could be a painting/drawing. i thought it could be a photo like we're used to.
and rita, it is difficult in a way to have your own work critiqued, but he did come looking. I hope as an artist/designer he's happy his work provokes a reaction.
|
Edited by - fbc on 05/04/2005 08:34:39 |
|
|
|
bogie007
- FB Fan -
7 Posts |
Posted - 04/27/2005 : 14:43:50
|
| I was thinking I should wait a few days before posting any more messages so it wouldn't seem like I'm compulsively checking the forum to read about myself, but, oh well, my secret's out! :) To answer fbc's question, the artwork is actually something I made in my studio (i.e. a painting of sorts) and then scanned into my computer. I played around with creating something entirely in illustrator or photoshop, but I'm not a graphic designer and couldn't really get the computer to do what I wanted, everything just ended up looking really flat. I'm actually really happy with my decision to make the actual object and then scan it in because the texture ended up having a kind of trompe l'oeil effect (which, hopefully, will be much more evident on the actual album cover than it is in the ebay pic). It's cool to see that a number of people actually like the cover. I know "real" artists aren't supposed to care what people think of their work and blah blah blah, but when people have a positive response to my stuff, I know that all the hard work I put into trying to communicate a concept or feeling has been successful. Again, thanks for all the feedback (even the negative kind...), it is very useful in helping me make improvements to my work. |
|
|
|
chickenwithtwoheads
= Cult of Ray =
Netherlands
391 Posts |
Posted - 04/27/2005 : 15:15:34
|
quote:
Originally posted by Cult_Of_Frank
Also, I defer all expertise in the font area to Chicken and apologize for ever doubting.
I'm bored with the valleys and bored by the peaks. So I bought a ticket to the Pixies |
|
|
|
fbc
-= Modulator =-
United Kingdom
4903 Posts |
Posted - 04/27/2005 : 16:15:01
|
quote:
Originally posted by bogie007
It's cool to see that a number of people actually like the cover.
Hey 007, I guarantee the number of people who like the cover will far out number the ones who don't. To be honest, I think I may be the only one. And even that sounds wrong in print, I don't dislike it, not at all.
I feel bad your introduction to the forum has started off on not the best of footings (reading my 'naff' post), and would so want to learn more about your work with Frank and in general rather than share my stupid opinions. That's what fascinates me more. If I could take back my derogatory comments I would, but it's too late now.
Oh well, thankyou anyway for answering my questions, and hope to speak again soon. And love the sarcasm (i mean this as a compliment), you'll fit in here just fine 
|
Edited by - fbc on 05/04/2005 08:35:40 |
|
|
|
bogie007
- FB Fan -
7 Posts |
Posted - 04/28/2005 : 00:18:53
|
fbc-
no need to feel bad about any of your comments regarding the cover art (I don't even know what "naff" means ...).I meant it when I said that I appreciate ALL the feedback, not just the flattering kind (although, I have to admit that it does make me feel pretty good  ). I don't take it personally, I promise. |
|
|
|
Ziggy
* Dog in the Sand *
United Kingdom
2461 Posts |
Posted - 04/28/2005 : 00:27:25
|
I like the cover art. It has a low key feel to it, which seems to suit the songs well.
|
|
|
|
Cult_Of_Frank
= Black Noise Maker =
Canada
11687 Posts |
Posted - 04/28/2005 : 07:23:21
|
I guess for me, I think that the image fits (I was thinking it looked a little like the side of a beehive or something) but it's just that it looks like a texture with some simple text on it. Maybe that's what's called for, simple/roots does seem appropriate, but it just isn't my taste I suppose. Just in the interest of honest feedback.
That said, I'm curious if there's any other artwork in the booklet?
"Joined the Cult of Frank / And you'll be enlightened" |
|
|
|
Daisy Girl
~ Abstract Brain ~
Belize
5305 Posts |
Posted - 04/28/2005 : 18:30:21
|
Thanks 007 for your comments... so do you have a web site where we can check out your other work?
Can you tell us about the other concepts you came up with or is that a secret?
Thanks! |
|
|
|
prozacrat
* Dog in the Sand *
USA
1186 Posts |
Posted - 04/29/2005 : 12:07:19
|
| Yeah. It'd be quite interesting to see the alternate covers. |
|
|
|
bogie007
- FB Fan -
7 Posts |
Posted - 04/29/2005 : 17:02:28
|
Howdy-
I actually don't have a functional website right at this second, but I will within the next couple o' days, and will give you the url when it's up and running. I'm surprised and totally thrilled that people are interested in seeing my other work. As far as discussing the alternate cover art ideas, I need to check in with Frank first to see what his take is on the whole thing, so I'll have to get back to you on that...
If any other famous rock stars happen to be reading this forum and would like me to design a cover for their next album, please contact my agent, who will give you all the neccessary information regarding design options and my very reasonable rates... |
|
|
|
bogie007
- FB Fan -
7 Posts |
Posted - 04/29/2005 : 17:10:14
|
Oh, I almost forgot! I'm curious if people are really from the country listed under their user names, or if some of them (like western samoa) are just meant to be funny...
|
Edited by - bogie007 on 04/29/2005 17:12:02 |
|
|
|
floop
= Wannabe Volunteer =
Mexico
15297 Posts |
Posted - 04/29/2005 : 17:16:20
|
quote:
Originally posted by bogie007
It's too bad that some people don't think it does justice to songs on the album (fbc) or that it looks like "fossilized tortilla chips" (floop),
hey bogie007. my comment was meant as a joke, in trying to figure out what it was..
i like the cover.
it must have been a thrill to work with Frank, seeing as how you're a fan..
floop |
|
|
|
fbc
-= Modulator =-
United Kingdom
4903 Posts |
Posted - 04/30/2005 : 04:30:28
|
ah man, there's me again!
i know it'll never happen, but I would love to see the original artwork before it was scanned, just to see the different tones and textures, that would be great. (I mean this in general) it's a shame scanning pieces on to a computer always seems to flatten the image. Maybe you could sell the original on ebay, now that would fetch a price. And I know I for one would bid like crazy.
|
Edited by - fbc on 05/04/2005 08:35:17 |
|
|
|
TAMAL
- FB Fan -
Australia
55 Posts |
Posted - 04/30/2005 : 19:44:24
|
I think this could be the best frank black album artwork yet, including his pixies covers to. I hope your the new 'official frank black art dude'!
Its the kind of art I like. Its simple but interesting at the same time. nice work!
SUP! |
|
|
|
billgoodman
>> Denizen of the Citizens Band <<
Netherlands
6197 Posts |
Posted - 05/01/2005 : 09:33:09
|
I'm really from the Netherlands bogie
"I joined the cult of Jon Tiven/Bye!" |
|
|
|
Frog in the Sand
-+ Le premiere frog +-
France
2715 Posts |
Posted - 05/01/2005 : 12:35:50
|
I'm really from France, Bogie.
Btw, let me remind you that according to the most recent surveys, 62.78% of FB fans are French. |
|
|
|
Frog in the Sand
-+ Le premiere frog +-
France
2715 Posts |
Posted - 05/01/2005 : 12:37:12
|
| Oh, and thanks for your info :) |
|
|
|
Daisy Girl
~ Abstract Brain ~
Belize
5305 Posts |
Posted - 05/01/2005 : 13:53:06
|
bogie, I am really from the US and I used to be from Canada :)
Thanks for chatting with us!! |
|
|
|
VoVat
>> Denizen of the Citizens Band <<
USA
9168 Posts |
Posted - 05/01/2005 : 14:55:03
|
I think I'm one of the few posters who lives in the United States and actually admits it.
I was all out of luck, like a duck that died. I was all out of juice, like a moose denied. |
|
|
|
vilainde
>> Denizen of the Citizens Band <<
Niue
7441 Posts |
Posted - 05/02/2005 : 01:54:41
|
I'm not really from Niue.
Denis
"His chops are too righteous. The helmets can't handle this level of rock 'n' roll. Karen, do something!" |
|
|
|
hWolsky
= Cult of Ray =
France
696 Posts |
Posted - 05/02/2005 : 06:42:18
|
It looks like skin and I can see a face/profile...
Am I hallucinating???
We are the Robots. Tuc tuc tuc tuc. |
|
|
|
fbc
-= Modulator =-
United Kingdom
4903 Posts |
Posted - 05/02/2005 : 09:46:58
|
now you got me seeing things, and my eyes hurt from squinting...
 
(excuse the crude outline)
..and could it be fb himself? |
Edited by - fbc on 05/02/2005 10:05:49 |
|
|
|
vilainde
>> Denizen of the Citizens Band <<
Niue
7441 Posts |
Posted - 05/02/2005 : 09:59:31
|
Looks more like The Thing to me.
Denis
"His chops are too righteous. The helmets can't handle this level of rock 'n' roll. Karen, do something!" |
|
|
|
fbc
-= Modulator =-
United Kingdom
4903 Posts |
Posted - 05/02/2005 : 10:04:59
|
ha! yeah! but do you think hW has a point?
I don't know if this is what he means by the profile, but i'm seeing something 'strange' and it's nothing to do with these pills i've just ingested. |
|
|
|
fbc
-= Modulator =-
United Kingdom
4903 Posts |
Posted - 05/02/2005 : 10:23:22
|
several photoshop filters later and voila!
the secret is revealed.
"thing for joy, thing for laughs..." |
|
|
|
Topic |
|
Honeycomb artwork (?)
