For this design project, we were instructed to create our own Penguin Book cover based on a famous couple of our choosing. After choosing the couple, we sketched out symbols that described them and created a visual metaphor that encapsulated the both of them for the final design. I chose to focus on Ana Mendieta and Carl Andre.
Carl Andre and Ana Mendieta were both artists in New York City during the 70s and 80s. Ana is described as an energetic soul who is either very loved or hated because of her fiery spirit. Carl was a brooding minimalist at the time who was climbing the ladder to gain more recognition for his sculptural art. Ana Mendieta was also making way in the scene, especially while the two of them were together. Her art was visceral and emotional and usually involved the body as well as the Earth. She is a huge pioneer of “Land Art” and once did a performance art piece about a sexual assault, which shocked audiences completely. Carl Andre was focused on very cold, rectangular, and minimalist pieces. Their art is a total dichotomy. When she was gaining traction in the art scene, some say that Carl was jealous of Ana and even suspected that she was only in a relationship with him in order to gain artistic prowess. A lot of their friends did not love the couple. They talked about how much they would spout at each other and fight intensely. Which makes sense when you find out about Ana’s tragic death. The death of an artistic icon and voice for marginalized communities died terribly. She was pushed to her death from her apartment balcony by her partner, Carl, on September 8th, 1985, or so they say…
In order to create a visual metaphor that symbolizes the couple and their story, I explored metaphors that encapsulates each individual, as well as the couple as a whole.
Ana Mendieta's imagery:
Carl Andre's imagery:
The couple's imagery:
Final book cover:
