Award-Shortlisted Book Illustration & Dustjacket Design — Sherlock Holmes: A Study in Scarlet
A Study in Scarlet book cover illusutration and inside page
The Challenge: Reimagining a Classic for the Modern Collector
Commissioned by Hipkiss Publishing, the objective was to illustrate a premium reprint of Arthur Conan Doyle’s A Study in Scarlet. The challenge lay in "breathing new life" into one of literature's most adapted characters while remaining fiercely loyal to the original 1880s Victorian context. This required deep historical research into Victorian fashion, gaslit London atmospherics, and a departure from modern caricatures to find the "Analogue Soul" of the original Holmes and Watson.
The Solution: A Bespoke, Two-Color Narrative System
I developed a striking visual identity for the edition using a limited palette of black and scarlet red. Utilising traditional pencil and ink techniques, I created a full-wrap dust jacket, internal illustrations, and a back-cover narrative piece. My role as an off-site art department covered everything from initial character concepts to the final technical layout. This holistic approach ensured a "Boutique Aesthetic" that honoured the premium print quality of the edition. The project was recognised for its strategic blending of historical research and bold design, ultimately being shortlisted for the Creativepool Annual 2024 award.
Cover and text illustrations for A Study in Scarlet
Back cover illustration
Illustration and design of the dustjacket
A study in Scarlet is available to order at Hipkiss Publishing
The book's artwork and layout made the shortlist for the Creative Pool Annual 2024 award.
