jack stauber’s micropop: music packaging

goals

To design and fabricate a rigid box packaging—I chose to create a slipcase set of art books inspired by the decline of CDs. Instead of a CD, the books expand on the CD lyric booklet format by including art, photos, behind-the-scenes bonus content, and of course, lyrics. Each book would also have a digital download code for the music.

The project is based on the work of Jack Stauber, a prolific independent artist and musician, active 2013 to present. His multimedia work takes inspiration from outdated but nostalgic aesthetics and mediums (specifically late 80s/early 90s), such as VHS tapes and related media.

process

Each of the three books is based on a collection of music published under Jack’s secondary project: “Jack Stauber’s Micropop.” The full set of books covers the entire Micropop discography to date.

Most micropop songs were originally short animations published on Jack’s YouTube channel (JackStauber) over several years. The design’s graphics and type are all taken from or inspired by these videos and his other published work. The exterior rigid box is the exact size and shape of a VHS tape, and replicates typical design choices of the time.

results

Buying music is still the best way to support musicians, as streaming services alone provide little income. This product allows the consumer to support their favorite artists, own their own copy of the music (plus bonus content), and avoid the wasteful plastic of a CD they don’t have many opportunities to use.