Storm Thorgerson

“I listen to the music, read the lyrics, speak to the musicians as much as possible. I see myself as a kind of translator, translating an audio event - the music - into a visual event - the cover.”

Background Information

• (February 28 1944- April 18 2013)• British graphic designer, film maker and tennis

fiend• Best known for his work with Rock Artists like

Pink Floyd , Led Zeppelin , Black Sabbath and Scorpions. • In memory of his work an exhibition was held at

Idea Generation Gallery in East London on April 22nd until May 2nd . The admission was free and showcased his ideas and work in the last 40 years of his life.

The Step preview to his idea developments1. The Brief

• “I listen to the music, read the lyrics, speak to the musicians as much as possible. I see myself as a kind of translator, translating an audio event - the music - into a visual event - the cover.”

• Here the designer connects with the artists and creates a “brainy soup”. From here the ideas then start to form structure.• Usually only demo’s

2. Roughs

• After a number of days band and the designer meet again• Attempt to find pinpoint a

concept/theme• This stage is very creative with

scribbling, honest thoughts and word play,• Best ideas are converted into

illustrations “ the roughs”

The Step preview to his idea developments3. Tests• With the rough and budget

accepted and agreed a prototype is created.• Prototype can be created on a

physical small scale i.e clay, polystyrene , paper• Final model is created

4. Shooting• Location is researched and

booked. If outdoors booking is for a longer time to account uncertain weather.• Models are positioned and

dressed. Aid from volunteers• Wide range of photographs are

taken under varying light conditions and effects.

The Step preview to his idea developments5. Editing• Selection ; where each shot is

either chosen or put aside• This can take several days to

months trying to reach the final product.• Hundreds of similar shots are

evaluated

6. Artwork• The finally the best shots are

chosen• Tidying up and the last computer

programming is done• The final product is handed over.

WOW!

For more on the work and exhibition of Storm Thorgerson visit: http://www.stormthorgerson.com/window.html