For my senior project at Southern Utah University, I chose to explore publication design. I created a book titled Lighten Up, a tribute to my grandpa, Mark Walter.

This project was a journey that combined storytelling and design. I began by interviewing family members and close friends, gathering stories and memories. With the help of Michelle Walter, we organized this content into a story. From there, I took these stories and designed a meaningful, handcrafted book.

Every element of Lighten Up was very intentional. Here are a few:

• Custom Typeface: I designed Mark Caps, a typeface inspired by my grandpa’s handwriting.

• Illustrations: I hand-drew illustrations that highlight key moments in his life.

• Scanned Images: Family photographs were scanned to visually preserve the memories.

• Letterpress Typography: Using the Vandercook Universal I press and wood type, I letterpressed the titles of each section.

• Hand-Binding: To complete the project, I hand-bound the final copy. I chose to do a flat back book, with a French style stitching, and hand sewn head and tail bands.

The final deliverables for this project included an 8.25 in. x 10.25 in hand bound book and an exhibit that was included in the Senior BFA Exhibition at the Southern Utah Museum of Art. The exhibit showcased the book, letterpress prints, spreads from the book, and a quilt I made from my grandpas shirts.

Professional Photography of Handbound Edition to Come