Design a book sleeve that visually interprets the work of Kehinde Wiley for a large-format publication dedicated to his practice.

The project explored how Wiley’s portraiture bridges contemporary representation with historical reference. Through digital sketching, image treatment, and testing special print applications, I focused on translating what makes his work distinctive: the tension between modern portraiture and ornate Baroque aesthetics. His signature decorative motifs were layered onto a contemporary visual structure, allowing both worlds to coexist within the same composition.

The final design takes the form of a double cover system. The primary cover, used in the traditional binding process, features a portrait of one of Wiley’s models set against a vivid orange background. A secondary layer, printed on clear acetate, introduces his iconic, hyper-detailed frames and ornamental patterns, functioning as a translucent sleeve placed over the first cover. Together, the two layers create a dimensional reading of Wiley’s work, echoing the richness and complexity of his visual language.