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InspirationIllustration

Exploring colour's relationship with emotions with Messy Monster and the Cosmic Colours

We're longtime lovers of pretty much everything that east London design studio and publisher Hato and its sister publisher Hato Press do, and this new Riso-printed publication is no exception.

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Cover of Messy Monster and the Cosmic Colours by Rachel Ortas, featuring a blue round monster with raised hands surrounded by colourful abstract shapes

Messy Monster and the Cosmic Colours is a beautiful little tome from Rachel Ortas, one of the founders of cult children’s magazine Okido. Published this month, the story is an exploration of the relationship between colour and emotion – something as relevant to adults as to the kids the book's aimed at.

But it's not just a trip for the mind, but for more practical senses: through dynamic chatacters and storytelling, kids learn the basics of colour theory, too.

In short, it's a glorious example of the power of visuals and creativity to help us all engage with the world. As the blurb asks, "Can you really make a rainbow with just three colours?"

A person in a white lab coat holds up a Riso-printed page from Messy Monster and the Cosmic Colours featuring blue and yellow circular designs and text about colour
Close-up of a red Riso-printed cylinder showing bold black graphic design details on the cover of Messy Monster and the Cosmic Colours
Open paper tray of a Riso printer showing sheets printed with blue, orange and other coloured designs from Messy Monster and the Cosmic Colours
An open spread from Messy Monster and the Cosmic Colours showing a blue character juggling coloured orbs beneath a tree with pink lanterns and stars, illustrated in vibrant colours
Open spread from Messy Monster and the Cosmic Colours showing colour names in blue, orange, purple and light blue with illustrated blue monster characters
Messy Monster and the Cosmic Colours children's book cover featuring a blue cartoon monster character with coloured dots representing different hues
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