Painful People is an open rant against urban Indian society’s misfits, albeit in a humorous tone. It uses a mix of illustration and witty writing to bring alive the author’s tone of voice.
The Design
We wanted to craft a collectible that was handmade in every aspect.
We wanted to craft a collectible that was handmade in every aspect.
Instead of simply printing the illustrations, we created hand-stamps of each drawing/character. Thus separating the book from just another printed book off the assembly. Each illustration of every copy has been stamped on to the book by the artist himself.
For the book’s typography we realised no ready font could bring alive the emotions of the writer as well as his own handwriting. So we had the author write out the entire book’s copy, before digitally enhancing it.
The entire text has been traditionally screen-printed, in order to enhance the richness of the bold type.
Even the cover has been crafted to enhance the visual appeal and highlight the handmade qualities. From the bold, open-mouthed cutout to the actual thumbprint on the back cover.
Even the cover has been crafted to enhance the visual appeal and highlight the handmade qualities. From the bold, open-mouthed cutout to the actual thumbprint on the back cover.
Painful People has transcended the traditional printed book form by making each copy a limited art object. There are only 1000 copies in print.
International orders for the book are open on: www.tadpolestore.com
More info: tadpolestore.com
The ranting front cover design
Painful People is essentially the author’s mouthpiece for his grievances. The cutout illustration of a wide open mouth succinctly captured the book’s essence - an open rant against anti-social elements.
Hand-stamped illustrations
Each illustration in every book has been hand-stamped by the author.
The 'Criss-crosser'
This character is a very Indian phenomenon, as he rushes across rail tracks or busy roads with no regard for safety.
The 'Holier Than Doubt' character
One of the many hilarious characters in the book.
The 'Vexatious VIP'
Bossy VIP behaviour is possibly a worldwide phenomenon.
Not your average book spine
The book’s spine wasn’t simply a repeat of the title, but the promise of a laugh riot.
The book's back cover
The back cover further enhanced the handmade quality of the book, by including the author’s actual thumbprint.