THE VISUALLY-GRAPHIC LANGUAGE OF JIM FLORA’S ILLUSTRATIONS IN MUSIC ALBUM COVER DESIGN

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to analyze the stylistic and compositional features of Jim Flora’s graphic language through the example of jazz album covers, by means of which music is visually interpreted. Methodology. The research has a systematic character and is based on comparative- historical, visual-analytical and semiotic methods. Art studies research methods (artistic-graphic, artistic-compositional and artistic-imagery design analysis) make it possible to examine the composition, color and typography of Flora’s Work, as well as to identify the relationship between the visual image and musical content. The study focuses on Jim Flora’s illustrations for jazz albums released by Columbia Records and RCA Victor. Results. The paper examines Jim Flora’s creative work in the context of the development of American graphic design in the mid-twentieth century. The analysis of the visual and graphic language of Flora’s illustrations made it possible to distinguish tree groups of compositions. The first group is characterized by a combination of modern grotesque and naive stylistics and has a decorative-typographic nature with simplified forms, contrasting color schemes and rhythmic typography. The second group consist of color-rhythmic compositions with decorative forms and sense of rhythm achieved through the alternation of color planes. The third group is represented by rhythmic-decorative compositions in which harmony between form, line and color is achieved. It has been established that the basis of Flora’s illustrative style is expressive deformation, rhythmic composition and decorative flatness. Scientific novelty. The study represents the first analysis of the visual and graphic language of album cover illustrations by the American designer Jim Flora. It demonstrates that his stylist approach to the visualization of music represents a synthesis of sonic and visual art. This became a foundation for the formation of jazz modernist aesthetics and the development of graphic design in the mid-20th century. Practical relevance. The research materials may be used in the educational process in the fields of graphic design, illustration design and art history, as well as in the professional practice of designers when creating music album covers and visual identities for cultural projects.