For this assignment, I reimagined the book cover for Franz Kafka’s The Metamorphosis, moving away from the usual dark and grotesque depictions of Gregor Samsa’s transformation. Instead of focusing on horror, I wanted to highlight introspection and change—the deeper themes of family, self-awareness, and identity.

Kafka never fully describes the insect, so I took a creative approach, blending human veins and insect wings to symbolise Gregor’s fragile existence. The soft pastel colours create a, dreamlike, abstract feel, shifting the focus from fear to transformation. Layers of oil pastels and white acrylic add depth and luminosity, making the wings feel delicate and alive.

Kafka’s novel is about more than just physical transformation; it explores perception, relationships, and self-awareness. My design focuses on the psychological depth rather than the horror of Gregor’s change. The translucent wings represent his fading presence in his family, and the organic shapes suggest the natural cycle of change.

By keeping the design minimalist and avoiding explicit imagery, I wanted viewers to connect with the idea on a personal level.