Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Visual Identity Analysis C

Choose a musician or series:

• What themes or emotions define the work?

• Which colors are typical?

• What symbols, characters, or motifs reappear?

• What typography style do they use?

• Search for the original  cover design and  study it.
  What mood does the original cover create?
  What does the cover consist of? 

Step 2 — Thumbnail Sketches (10 min)

Create 3–4 layout sketches exploring:

• Image placement

• Title typography ideas

• Symbolic or thematic imagery

• Balance, spacing, color directions

Focus: originality + recognizability.

Step 3 — Build the CD Cover in Canva 

Start with a square album template (1:1): Front Cover, CD Design & Back Cover

• Create a new title font treatment

• Place main artwork or illustration

• Add typography (artist name, album name)

• Experiment with composition

Encourage:

• creative textures

• photo effects

• custom illustrations

• stylized shapes

Step 4 — Design Refinement

Polish:

• Font pairing

• Color palette

• Lighting and contrast

• Alignment

• Symbolic elements

• Overall mood consistency

Ask: Does this feel like a new version of the same world?

Step 5 — Artist Reflection

Write a 3–5 sentence statement describing:

• What brand identity elements were kept

• What was redesigned or updated

• What symbolic choices were made

• What emotional tone the cover aims to create

Step 6 — Group Sharing

Students present:

• Their redesigned cover

• Their artist statement

Group members give:

• Two strengths

• One suggestion

Terminology

• Brand Identity – visual personality of the artist or series

• Motif – recurring symbol or idea

• Typography – style and design of text

• Composition – arrangement of visual elements

• Color Palette – chosen colors that set tone

• Texture – visual feel (smooth, rough, grungy, soft)

• Symbolism – deeper meaning behind imagery