The concept behind this coffee table book (CTB) has been changed a lot. At first, I wanted to make to main topic about my relationship and how he was there for me through ups and downs, and I really wanted to used pressed leaves to frame the pictures, and was thinking of using the title, “Back to basics” or “Down to Earth.”. I wanted to portray the emotions, feelings and experience through illustrations, pictures and words. I consulted Azhar and he gave the go ahead. And then, Azhar gave an example of how I could make the CTB into something more of a story; So more story telling then just portraying emotions. So I thought of doing that instead. With a clear plan in my head, I thus consulted my Mother and a close friend, Rachel. Both did not like the idea, my Mother, more directly said “Lame…”, while Rachel, the more diplomatic one said, “I don’t think that’s a very good topic…” Thus I had to reformat.

Thinking back now, I have to admit, that concept was juvenile. However, I was stubborn and wanted to keep the concept of using pressed dried leaves to make a pretty frame. However, I realized after an hour or two of really sitting down and brainstorming that that was completely hindering my creativity. Thus this time, I decided not to sit around and think of pressed leaves. I called Rachel up and thus, we went to Kinokunia to research up on coffee table books. Making a bee line towards the design section was probably the most genius thing I could have done that stressful day. I was browsing through all the over sized hard cover books when I came across the book called, “Eat love. Food concept by a designer.” Of course, I picked it up. It was a huge inspiration. I learnt a few things from it.

1. We can still have that “exercise book”, “scrapbook” style without having to press leaves on it.

2. We must a have generally large knowledge or experience on that subject.

3. Or at least have a collection of something interesting that could invoke, evoke and let the readers understand or feel your emotions.

That was what makes a book so interesting.

So, after that revelation, I went back home, sat down and pulled out a piece of paper and told myself not to move until I finished brainstorming. That exercise actually helped to confuse me even further (so many choices!) and then naturally, my mind calmed down and something jumped out at me: POEMS.

Thus, my final concept was to let the readers observe and experience the feelings, madness and a whole range of emotions that an inspiring designer feels.

“My Favourite Occupation”

The book’s pages are square to allow easy reading, and a sense of balance and familiarity in terms of character to the book. Especially when my book is designed in the way to let the readers have a hands-on experience, technically. The book is to be turned 360 degrees, and read anti-clockwise. Thus will make the book more unique and more fun.

The sections of the books, “Playful”, “Naughty”, “Angst” and “Suicidal” have their own personality and character. The fonts are different, the colours are different, the layout is different and the mood and atmosphere is different. The only thing that is constant is the square shape the page forms. This will engage the readers both physically and emotionally as well.

“Playful”- Light blue with white words, very child-like, emits feelings of innocence and devilish fun.

“Naughty”- Bright pink with black words, very girlish full of teddy bears and slightly more darker thoughts as compared to playful.”

“Angst”- Black with red words, very emo, emits feelings of doom, hopelessness and speaks of giving up.

“Suicidal”- Dark purple with pink words, very soulful, emits feelings of despair, retribution and the end.

The content are all written and shot by me, none of which are borrowed. This will actually project the real feelings I have in this line of occupation, not all of which are good. I hope the readers will feel it too, this confusion I have inside.