Kolding School of Design collaborates on a new music award

As part of our collaboration with DUP – the Danish Independent Record Labels Association – we have participated in the nominations for the Cover Art of the Year award. A jury composed of three students and three faculty members from the school’s Communication Design programme worked closely together to evaluate and select the submitted works. The jury assessed the entries based on four criteria: aesthetics, storytelling, originality, and execution.

According to Laila Grøn Truelsen, Head of the Communication Design programme, the nomination process was both educational and inspiring for students and faculty alike:

"Everyone was an equal member of the jury, and together, we discussed, evaluated, and justified our choices. Out of ten works, we selected four. This was a unique opportunity to combine expertise and creativity within a professional community."

On cover art as a genre, she adds:

"Cover art is a vital part of a musician's identity, serving as a visual interpretation of the music’s themes, moods, and concepts. It helps convey the artist’s vision while deepening the musical style and adding a narrative visual dimension. Successful cover art demonstrates how design and music can come together to create a unique, cohesive experience."

The four nominees and Jury's reasons

Mikael Hallstrøm (for Rumpistol’s ‘Going Inside’)
This artwork is harmonious yet dynamic. The composition is strong, the color choices are deliberate, and the illustrative work conveys depth, synergy, and vibration.

Buster Ask (for Yune’s ‘Lemon Soft Perfection’)
This artwork exudes charm through its simplicity. Its humor invites the viewer to play and interpret its visual language. The expression is whimsical, with typography and illustration skillfully aligned.

Caroline Vang (for Astrid Cordes’ ‘Hurry Up and Kiss Me While the Baby’s Still Asleep’)
This artwork holds a striking tension between fragility and strength. It is soft, sharp, and dynamic, offering a sensory experience. It presents a cohesive universe that feels alive.

Thit Bitsch (for The Concrete Boys’ ‘Sucking the Pope and All That Vatican Dope’)
Illustration, typography, and the placement of elements merge into a strong design. Bold visual contrasts create a humorous and surreal universe that invites exploration.

About the Event
Den Uafhængige culminates in an awards show on January 29, 2025, at Park Bio, where the winner of Cover Art of the Year will be announced alongside winners in other categories: Album of the Year, Band of the Year, Debut of the Year, Producer of the Year, Songwriter of the Year, Solo Artist of the Year, Export of the Year, Music Communication of the Year, and DUP’s Honorary Award.