Project 3 'Working Together - Words and images' (words as pictures)

I'm currently working on the third project of our Illustration module.
It is called 'Working Together - Words and Pictures (words as pictures)'.

The project deals with exploring the complex and diverse relationship of words and image.
Do they complement, subvert or contradict one another, do you hand draw, use existing typefaces?

The title I have chosen is "The man who laughs", which relates to the novel by Victor Hugo, originally published in April 1869 under the French title L'Homme qui rit. Although among Hugo's more obscure works, it was adapted into a popular 1928 film, directed by Paul Leni.

The story deals with Gwynplaine, son of Lord Clancharlie, who has a permanent smile carved on his face by the King, in revenge for Gwynplaine's father's treachery. Gwynplaine is adopted by a travelling showman and becomes a popular idol. He falls in love with the blind Dea. The king dies, and his evil jester tries to destroy or corrupt Gwynplaine.

You will probably notice the connection of this character to the well known Joker in Batman!

The format is fixed to a Book format. h.197mm x w.125mm, spine 15mm (back optional)
Additional text, by whom - one line review, name of reviewer or publication.

My first experiments are strongly inspired by M.C. Escher's work.
You will know the image of the eye which is widely famous.
I'm concentrating on geometric repetition that he has explored deeply in his works.
The character in 'The man who laughs" smiles to the outside but is deeply troubled on the inside. I want to try and oppose the smile with the expression of a sad mouth.
Maybe even include images of tears or eyes?
I will still have to consider the type of course.Integrated hand drawn maybe?
Suggestions are welcome!






































some of my first initial sketches.