Page 1: This 'other' has a nose.
Artist: Weronika Kubak.
Page description and purpose: I discovered Weronika through her UAL graduate profile, which showcased her work in 3D design. At the time, I was looking for an artist to create an abstract nose character sequence for a proboscis monkey for the first page. The proboscis monkey's strikingly distinct nose makes it the perfect character not only for this page but also as the book's opening image. People from different backgrounds are often treated as aliens—as different as another species—and are dehumanised through derogatory animal terms. Using the fabulous face of a proboscis monkey feels like the right way to introduce the subject of othering. The simplicity of this initial image focuses all attention on the single character and readies the reader for more amazement as the visuals grow more complex throughout the book. I believe it's important that from the very beginning of the book we immediately prioritise an animal to introduce the concept of othering, to extend beyond the human species and include other life and beings on this planet. This is not only to marvel at its fascinating feature but also, by making a simple point of connection through the feature that sits in the middle of each of our faces, we relate. The changing nose-creature image is, of course, fictional and absurd. I hope this serves as a playful way to show just how absurd othering is and how sneakily it can infiltrate our judgements of others.
Welcome, Weronika. Happy to have you as the starting point of this book's journey. Rose.
“The 3D illustration highlights the monkey's distinct features and captures its playful essence. The enclosed composition and lush jungle backdrop setting, bursting with colours, aim to spark curiosity and invite young readers on an enchanting adventure.” - Weronika
Weronika Kubak is a multidisciplinary designer specialising in motion and graphic/illustration design. Her designs are infused with personal experiences, resulting in meaningful storytelling through characters that evoke emotion and personality. Drawing from a diverse background in interior and interaction design, Weronika seamlessly combines aesthetics with functionality, ensuring her creations engage users in a memorable way.
Weronika's fascination with psychology and theatre adds a profound layer to her designs, allowing her to craft narratives that resonate on an emotional level. This unique blend of interests enriches her work, making it both relatable and impactful. Weronika’s portfolio shows her versatility and dedication to the craft as she continues to push the boundaries of her artistic explorations. Beyond designing, she is a big fan of coffee, video games, rock & metal concerts, and handcrafts.