Illustrating the book cover for Noughts and Crosses: A Journey Through Illustration and Hand Lettering using the Penguin Archive Briefs

Exploring Noughts and Crosses: An Artistic Interpretation Through Symbols and Unconventional Composition

As a passion project I used the Penguin Archive briefs for the Malorie Blackman’s “Noughts and Crosses,” a powerful tale that delves into themes of privilege, prejudice, and the struggle for equality. As I embarked on illustrating this compelling story, I decided to think outside the box, utilizing symbols and an unconventional composition to create a visual representation that inspires and provokes thought.

Before diving into the artistic process, I immersed myself in the book's themes and characters. “Noughts and Crosses” presents a society divided by the rigid lines of race and class, where Noughts (the marginalized) and Crosses (the privileged) navigate a complex landscape of friendship and conflict. By grasping the core elements of the story, I could effectively translate these ideas into visual symbols. In my book cover, I aimed to communicate the essence of the narrative through symbols. This interplay of symbols creates a dialogue within the artwork about identity and societal roles. To illustrate the themes of separation and connection, I used colour blocking to symbolise barriers. This duality visually represents the struggle for understanding and unity between the two groups. By placing crosses as elements on one side and nought elements on the opposite, I created a dynamic tension that mirrors the emotional struggles within the story. This approach invites the viewer to engage actively with the piece, rather than passively observing. I opted for a rhythm that feels fragmented and organic. This technique echoes the disjointed reality faced by the characters, emphasizing their experiences in a visually compelling way

My goal was to create a piece that not only represents “Noughts and Crosses” but also provokes discussion and reflection.