Constructing Citizenship

Book Cover Design

Client: UT Press
Art Direction and Design: Elisa Razak

Amid the rapid industrialization of the early twentieth century, Progressive Era activists across the United States fought for social, political and economic change. Tennessee women were no exception. The book explores the contributions and civic engagement of women in Tennessee during this transformative period. Drawing on a wealth of archival materials, including personal letters, newspaper editorials and meeting minutes, each contributor shares long-overlooked stories about Tennessee women's public work. I created the cover as a collage to reflect the vast volume of materials and imagery in the book, set within the classic American red, white and blue palette. The words “vote,” “working” and “equal” are prominent.

Alternate Cover

I created another option with a more restrained approach with fewer images and a sepia palette. The title was inspired by type found in the text, as well as typographic trends of the era.