Harriet Beesley
University College Falmouth
Explanation of work
The use of ivy came from research into symbols relating to the Greek bacchanalian ritual as described in the book, which Tartt had referenced in a more contemporary setting. I wanted to create tension through the concealment of the text, echoing the lies and deceit of the characters. The high-gloss finish of the red die-cut dust jacket contrasts strongly with the purity of the matt white cover, evoking the blood on the hands of the once naïve and innocent narrator. The way it sprawls across the cover also relates to the claustrophobic hold the main characters have on the narrator.
