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InspirationIllustration

Record sleeve by John Morgan Studio & Liam Sparkes, inspired by creatures of the deep

This record sleeve forms the latest piece in the Four Corners Familiars series, where artists are asked to create new artwork to illustrate a classic novel. Aiming to add a new twist on the notion of illustration, this particular work takes the form of music accompanying Jules Verne’s classic tale, 20,000 Leagues Under The Sea.

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Blue vinyl LP sleeve for 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea with illustrated sea creatures and anchors in white and blue on cream cover

The coloured vinyl LP has been designed to coincide with the complete Verne novel, and for readers without a turntable, the book also includes an MP3 download so that everyone can experience the atmospheric music composed to be played when reading.

The music is by Jonny Trunk of Trunk Records – a record label specialising in film and early electronic music. He says: "When Four Corners came to me with the idea of a book and record for their Familiars series, Twenty Thousand Leagues was an instant choice. I’ve been a collector of underwater sounds and soundtracks (think Jacques Cousteau) for many years and this would give me the perfect excuse to make my own subaquatic soundscapes. I hope the results conjure up visions through the Nautilus portholes and strange walking adventures along the sea bed. Thanks for listening."

The art direction was undertaken by John Morgan, whose previous clients include Tate Britain, David Chipperfield Architects, Jürgen Teller and Turner Contemporary. And the cover illustrations are by renowned tattoo artist, Liam Sparkes.

For more information, visit morganstudio.co.uk / fourcornersbooks.co.uk.

All images copyright of Four Corners

Blue ink-drawn nautical imagery with a skull, eels, anchor and "20,000 Leagues under the sea" text on a cream background for a vinyl record sleeve
Blue ink illustration featuring a giant squid, diving helmet, UFO, spaceship, explosions and various sea creatures arranged on a cream background
Open record sleeve spread showing a blue-inked mermaid tail and sailing ship, with "The Sea" and "20,000 Leagues" text on the right page
An open book showing printed text with a dark blue label reading "Atlantis" positioned across the page
Deep blue vinyl LP with white label for The Sea, designed by John Morgan Studio and Liam Sparkes for the Four Corners Familiars series
Deep blue vinyl record with white circular label featuring nautilus and ocean-inspired design for 20,000 Leagues Under The Sea
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