MindMap-SA Issue 7

FeatureLegendary cover art designer StormThorgerson recently visited Cape Townfor an exhibition of his workEven at this age he still embodiesthe young quirky designerhe became in the mid 60’s. Hewears a t-shirt under a shapelessshirt that contrasts hisgrandpa pants (those comfylookingblack pants the olderfolk tend to wear way toooften). Reminding me of that grumpy old neighbourall the kids used to be afraid of, he cussesand occasionally threatens you with his walkingstick. No, this is not that man down the street thatyells “HEY, Get off my lawn”. Instead it’s theimmensely talented Storm Thorgerson, famousfor his out of the ordinary album cover designs.He has worked with some major names in the musicindustry such as Pink Floyd, Peter Gabriel, Muse,Black Sabbath, The Cranberries, and Audioslave,to name a few. The raging storm Exhibition beingheld at 6 Spin Street in Cape Town Central, is currentlyshowcasing some of his best known designs.The eye oftheStormWords and Images by: Megan DeaneHe co-founded Hipgnosis, a design studio, with partnerAubrey Powell in 1968. Storm’s art has been recognisedacross many platforms which include; MTV,Rolling stone and as well as 7 Grammy nominations.People often associate the name Storm Thorgerson withPink Floyd as he has created 20 of their album covers.PStorm’s unusual approach to design is appreciated bymany. For the majority, his work is perceived as outlandish,but according to Storm “most of it is real”. And thatI what has made his work so endearing. The eccentric albumcovers that most believed have been cleverly createdin photoshop have actually been set up in reality. Stormand his team go as far as using props, erecting structuresand building sets to get the desired effect they want. Hestrongly believes it is “more fun doing it for real”. Althoughhis thoughts on Photoshop, ironically, is that it’s handy.