The Art of Book Cover Art: A Conversation with the Folio Society
The Folio Society has been making exquisite book cover art and illustrations for nearly 80 years, and their new Spring collection is a testament to their continued excellence. With a range of traditional and digital media, the society’s artists bring their unique vision to each edition, making every book a work of art.
The Artistic Process
The process of creating a Folio edition is a collaborative effort between the artist and the society’s team. "Techniques vary according to the demands of the images, but I largely rely on gouache overworked in pencil, though I love to use oil pastel when given the chance," says Clive Hicks-Jenkins, who illustrated the sold-out limited edition of Beowulf. "Collage is always present, sometimes obvious and sometimes so subtly applied as to be invisible. I frequently use etching techniques to reverse dark lines on pale ground to pale lines on dark. Everything is analogue, made with brushes, paints, ink, pens, and etching needles."
The Artists
The society has a roster of talented artists who bring their own distinctive style to each project. Julie Dillon, who has worked on several Folio editions, including The King of Elfland’s Daughter, is a digital artist who uses a range of techniques to create her stunning images. "Some, like me, work predominantly with digital tools, from initial sketch to final illustration," she notes. "Others take a purely analogue approach, embracing the tactile nature of their materials."
The Spring Collection
The new Spring collection features the work of seven exceptional artists, including Cristina Bencina, David Lupton, Michael Herr, Robert Carter, Alexis Deacon, Neil Bousfield, and Julie Dillon. Each artist brings their own unique perspective to the table, resulting in a diverse range of styles and techniques.
Conclusion
The Folio Society’s new Spring collection is a testament to the power of art and illustration. With its range of traditional and digital media, the society’s artists bring their unique vision to each edition, making every book a work of art. Whether you’re a book lover or an art enthusiast, the Folio Society’s new collection is sure to delight and inspire.
FAQs
Q: What is the Folio Society?
A: The Folio Society is a publisher of high-quality books with beautiful cover art and illustrations.
Q: How many artists does the Folio Society work with in a year?
A: The Folio Society commissioned 39 artists in 2024 to bring their books to life.
Q: What is the process of creating a Folio edition like?
A: The process is a collaborative effort between the artist and the society’s team, with a range of techniques and media used to create each edition.
