As a mini project I decided to design a cover for Jane Eyre in a retro-gothic style that suited my illustrations. I was inspired by paper-back designs of the 70's, specifically those of romance and mystery novels.
These are three illustrations I have created in a style to match the aesthetic of Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte.
This first illustration represents Jane's journey to the mansion and foreshadows at those she shall meet there.
The second represents her time at Lowood School and her experiences there. Depicted are hints of the faith and religious teachings she learned as well as the restraint put on her person. She is standing beside her first friend Helen and her tragic end hinted at by the colouring and imagery surrounding her.
The third illustration is an imagining of the ending of the novel. Where the two lovers are together again, but the future is hazy and unsure. Behind the couple is the remains of the mansion in a colourful fire burning into the the sky. The bird imagery is present only faintly, as now unlike the other pieces, Jane has grown up and is no longer constrained.