Bao Quyen
Illustrator & Storyteller
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Nový Prostor - Magazine Covers
Client: Nový Prostor
My role: Creating illustrations for Magazine Covers
Illustrations for Nový Prostor Magazine Covers
Nový Prostor is a Czech street magazine established in 1999, dedicated to supporting individuals facing social challenges, including homelessness and financial hardship. The magazine is sold by vendors who purchase each issue for 40 CZK and sell it for 80 CZK, allowing them to earn an income and work towards improving their situations.
In this project, I had the opportunity to create illustrations for Nový Prostor's magazine covers, contributing to the publication's mission of empowering marginalized individuals through meaningful employment.
For more information about Nový Prostor and its initiatives, visit their official website:
Novy Prostor
Illustrations that I’ve made
Topic of the Magazine Issue “Soul”
Nový Prostor seller holding the magazineFinal Look of the magazine cover
Sketch
Brief:
The editorial team of Nový Prostor tasked the theme "inner self" for the upcoming issue, focusing on psychology and mental health. Articles explore topics such as the definition of the inner self and personality by psychologists, art therapy, slam poetry and its impact on mental health, reflections of the inner self in literature, altered states of consciousness, the relationship between climate and mental health, and the influence of cleaning on mental well-being.
A new visual approach with fresh color combinations, distinct from previous issues, was requested. No further specific direction was provided.
Concept Development:
I visualized the concept of "inner self" as a glowing orb held and protected by hands – to me, this represents care and nurturing of our inner world. The abstract shapes and patterns flowing around the orb symbolize emotions and thoughts that influence us.
I also incorporated symbols representing the key themes of the magazine into the background:
- Art Therapy: Brushes and paints, symbolizing creative expression.
- Climate: Planets, connecting the external world to our inner reflections.
- Slam Poetry: Books and papers, showcasing the power of words and emotions.
The central figure in my illustration is a young woman holding her "inner self." I chose a red vest and autumn-inspired attire to bring a warm, seasonal feel to the design.
The color palette diverges from previous issues, introducing fresh and vibrant combinations to better capture the depth and intimacy of the theme.
Topic of the Magazine Issue “Home”
Sketch
Finální obálka Nového ProstoruProdejce Nový Prostor
Brief:
The editorial team of Nový Prostor tasked the theme "home" for the upcoming issue. The aim is to visually express the essence of home as a place of safety, peace, and comfort, while incorporating autumnal elements and aligning with the magazine's values of community support and social inclusion.
Concept Development:
For this concept, I chose to depict a moment where a girl looks out from her home window and sees a man selling Nový Prostor to passersby, with his loyal dog by his side. This captures the spirit of connection and solidarity that Nový Prostor embodies.
The outdoor scene is brought to life with falling autumn leaves, adding movement and seasonal charm. Inside the home, I used warm colors and cozy autumn decorations, such as candles and pumpkins, to evoke a sense of comfort and tranquility.
This concept blends the idea of home as a personal sanctuary with the external world, reflecting the mission of Nový Prostor – to help people and foster a sense of societal belonging.
Other illustrations I’ve done: