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Carl Wiens designed the cover of this month’s issue of Poetry magazine called “Evolution.” The colored tools and off-register layering pops nicely against the blank background. Under the art direction of Alex Knowlton at Winterhouse, the covers are a staple of publication design. Take a look at the flickr set of back issues and the slideshow of vintage covers from the 1970′s. They also recently ran a story on poetry book design. Wonderful stuff.
It was a pleasure corresponding with Carl about his work:
How did you get involved with designing this cover for Poetry?
I was contacted by Alex Knowlton. He had seen my work, a series entitled CMY-X. I have been developing screenprints and experimental pieces that incorporate collage, science and color.
You transposed mechanical parts over the human body to depict “Evolution.”Do we shape our tools and thereafter they shape us?
I’ve always been intrigued by science, and what we can see as a result of technology, from the edges of the universe down to the subatomic. At the same time genetic science is not only unlocking the codes of life, it is in some cases, modifying those codes. Using mechanical drawings and tools reinforces that idea on a visual and conceptual level.
I like how you incorporate found objects and vintage imagery into your work. Do you frequent the flea markets instead of sketching? What sorts of items do you collect? I imagine you have a drawer overflowing with nuts and bolts.
I am a true scavenger, using found source materials in many locations. I frequent estate auctions, used book stores and flea markets, picking up source materials. It is amazing what you can find with a little footwork and research and luck. I started with a box of radio and television repair magazines from the fifties. I love mechanical drawings and old textbooks, and although I am attracted to the aesthetic, I am not a hands-on tinkerer. I work primarily with paper and printed materials. I do have a garage full of old bicycles.
Poetry boasts an impressive backlist of designers and illustrators at the magazine. How does it feel to be a part of this lineage?
The covers are amazing. Elegant and simple, but conceptually very provocative. I love the recent covers by Adam McCauley, Greg Clarke and Cathy Bleck. It is also impressive to look at the work of giants like Milton Glaser, Ralph Steadman and Henrik Drescher. I am honored to have had this opportunity. I also appreciate having the chance to be featured and answer your questions. Thanks, Joanna!
Filed under: Stacks and Stands Image may be NSFW.
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Image may be NSFW.Clik here to view.
