Interactive Cover Design: Pool

Redesigning Algae with a Touch of Innovation

Algae, often overlooked in the natural world, takes center stage in the design of the book cover for "Pool." Jin-Zhi Liao, a talented graphic designer, draws inspiration from the diverse and interesting aspects of algae found in small ponds. The cover design aims to showcase the beauty and diversity of algae, while also providing an interactive experience for readers.

The unique feature of this design lies in the way Jin-Zhi Liao reimagines the appearance of algae. By incorporating Chinese characters and numbers, the cover design immediately captures readers' attention and encourages them to explore further. The cover is adorned with doodles of various types of algae, each coated with translucent varnish to create a watery reflection effect. These doodles extend across the entire cover, creating an immersive image of a pond teeming with algae.

Adding an element of interactivity, the inner cover of "Pool" features a small matching quiz. Readers can test their knowledge of algae by matching the correct names to the corresponding doodles. This interactive quiz not only enhances the reading experience but also educates readers about the different types of algae.

The realization of this design involved the use of spot varnish to emphasize the vivid colors and realistic texture of the algae. Neon yellow and greenish tones were chosen to create a visually striking effect, capturing the essence of algae in a captivating way.

The "Pool" book cover measures 148mm in width and 210mm in height, making it a compact and visually appealing addition to any bookshelf or coffee table.

Jin-Zhi Liao embarked on this design project in December 2019, and it was completed in Tainan, Taiwan. The book was published in Taiwan on December 5th, 2019, introducing readers to the fascinating world of algae in a visually stunning and interactive manner.

The design process for "Pool" presented its fair share of challenges. Finding an attractive and eye-catching way to design a science book cover required numerous attempts and brainstorming sessions. However, Jin-Zhi Liao's perseverance and creativity paid off, resulting in a design that beautifully captures the essence of algae and engages readers in a unique way.

The "Pool" book cover design by Jin-Zhi Liao has received recognition for its excellence. It was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in the Print and Published Media Design category in 2022. This prestigious award acknowledges designs that are well-crafted, practical, and innovative, meeting professional and industrial standards. By integrating industry best practices and showcasing competent technical characteristics, the "Pool" cover design contributes to a better world through its fulfillment and positive impact.