The Duke ’56
Illustration & Record Cover design
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Artist: Edward Kennedy « Duke » Ellington
Project: The Duke & His Orchestra ’56
Original photographer: Herman Leonard
Size print: 50x70cm
Printing paper: Hahnemühle Museum Etching 350g
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Print is available in limited edition on request
The Duke & His Orchestra ’56
Jazz, as a musical style, has always been a vector of creations. There are many covers created by illustrators (like Steinweiss for exemple), mythical posters or iconic photographs.
After two specific works on Mississippi « John » Hurt and Chet Baker, it is now Duke Ellington’s turn to have his own illustration.
Duke Ellington is one of the most famous African-American personalities of the 20th century, supporter of the civil rights movement and composer of genius. His big band is one of the most famous in the history of jazz.
This photo, taken by the talented photographer Herman Leonard during a concert in Paris in 1958, captures the solitude of the artist on stage and the magic of his talent.
All I had to do was to create a poster that would match both Duke Ellington’s, the photographer’s talent, and the unique atmosphere of a live concert. I tried here to bring out the solitude of a performer on stage, lit only by a spotlight.
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Print is available in limited edition on request