Cunningham, and our art director Andres Maldonado, we arrived at three distinct images. The first captures Dameon standing against a weathered brick wall, evoking the urban grit of Belfast. The second is an intimate black-and-white portrait, given depth through the selective coloring of Dameon’s blue eyes and red scarf. The third takes us into Damien’s studio, with his artwork showcased on the walls around him—a setting as intricate as the artist himself. These choices weren’t just about aesthetic appeal; they reflected the thematic scope of The Special Art Issue ‘23 Belfast—a city rich in both modern aspiration and cultural heritage. Like Dameon, Belfast has a compelling narrative of struggle and triumph. Our covers aim to encapsulate this duality, offering a multi-layered representation that resonates across different moods and seasons. In today’s digital age, where scrolling has replaced flipping pages, the importance of a physical cover can be underestimated. Yet, it remains a pivotal point of engagement, a tactile introduction to the ethos we champion. For this Issue, that ethos celebrates the symbiotic relationship between diverse forms of art, the transcendent power of collaborative effort, and the undeniable impact of stories that deserve a broad audience. So, as you hold this issue in your hands, know that the cover you chose is more than just an image—it’s a gateway into a world where art, culture, and storytelling intersect in compelling ways. We hope it captures your imagination as much as it has ours, inviting you to delve deeper into the rich mosaic of stories that await you within.
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