“Doing Life With…” is a BellaNaija Features series that explores the diverse ways people live, work, travel, nurture their families, and navigate life’s many facets. Our goal is to represent a broad spectrum of experiences, ensuring every voice finds a place at BN.
Missed our previous chat with Simphiwe Dana? Catch up here.
This week, we sit down with Adebayo Gbenga, the creative force behind design at Narrative Landscape Press and TBLNG Press. Adebayo has crafted compelling book covers for celebrated authors including Damilare Kuku, Wole Soyinka, Wale Adenuga, Olusegun Obasanjo, Adesuwa O’man Nwokedi, and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie.
Enjoy the insightful conversation!
Introducing Adebayo Gbenga: A Journey Rooted in Creativity
Hi Gbenga, how are you feeling today?
Hi BellaNaija, I’m doing well, thank you for asking.
Could you share a bit about your upbringing, education, and how your early years influenced your path?
I was raised in Okokomaiko, an environment that, despite its challenges, sparked my fascination with art and design. As a child, I was endlessly curious, always questioning the world around me. This passion led me to study Creative Art with a focus on Graphic Design at Tai Solarin University of Education. I’ve always felt a strong sense of purpose in my work, and I’m just getting started on this creative journey.
From Early Projects to Editorial Design Excellence
What was your first design project, and how did it influence your creative approach?
Before fully committing to design, I dabbled in various creative roles. My editorial design career officially began in 2017 when I took on an IT position at The Sun Newspapers, which gave me invaluable experience in newspaper layout and design. Since joining Narrative Landscape Press in 2022, I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with leading African publishers and renowned authors worldwide, which has been an exhilarating experience.
Understanding the Editorial Design Process
As an editorial designer, my craft involves harmonizing text, images, and illustrations to produce visually engaging books and magazines. I carefully select typography, color palettes, and imagery that not only complement the author’s vision but also enhance the reader’s engagement. Collaboration is key-I work closely with authors, editors, and publishers to ensure the design resonates with the intended audience.
My workflow begins with grasping the project’s goals and audience, followed by thorough research on the book’s theme. I then develop initial concepts, create the design, and refine it based on feedback. Editorial design plays a vital role in publishing, and I’m passionate about elevating the reader’s experience through thoughtful design.
Behind the Scenes: Crafting Covers for Prominent Books
One standout project was designing the cover for Making It Big by Femi Otedola, a book filled with entrepreneurial wisdom. I’m grateful to Dr. Eghosa Imasuen, Co-founder of Narrative Landscape Press, for entrusting me with this high-profile assignment. The most thrilling part is the early, confidential stages of the project-when ideas are still forming and the design is a secret in the making.
Creating a cover involves balancing many factors: aligning the color scheme with the author’s brand, considering genre trends, marketing strategies, and securing image licenses. It can feel like navigating a complex negotiation, but that’s part of the excitement.
Stepping Outside the Comfort Zone
The most creatively demanding project was redesigning the new edition of Nearly All the Men in Lagos Are Mad by Damilare Kuku, published by TBLNG Press. Announced shortly after the release of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s Dream Count, the public’s expectations were high. I paused all other work to focus on this cover, but initial concepts didn’t satisfy me.
Given that the book has been a bestseller across multiple countries for four years, I wanted the new cover to be exceptional. After multiple readings and brainstorming sessions with the TBLNG Press team, I drew inspiration from the phrase “Lagos Men Will Show You Pepper.” This concept brought me close to the final design, which I’m proud to reveal soon.
What Defines a Memorable Book Cover?
A truly unforgettable book cover or editorial layout is one that encapsulates the heart of the story or content. When typography, imagery, and color work in harmony to reflect the narrative’s essence, the design not only captures attention but also leaves a lasting emotional impact on readers.
Alternate Paths: If Not Design?
Honestly, I haven’t explored other career options deeply because I’m passionate about what I do. I see my work as contributing significantly to shaping the visual identity of African literature, which motivates me every day.
A Day in the Life of Adebayo Gbenga
My typical day is mostly spent in solitude, immersed in design. Over the last two years, I’ve juggled at least five projects simultaneously. Occasionally, I take breaks from Lagos to recharge, having traveled to over 20 Nigerian states. With friends scattered across the country, I look forward to visiting them all.
Passions Beyond Design
Recently, I’ve been exploring documentary photography, which has become a new source of inspiration both personally and professionally. Capturing real-life moments enriches my creative perspective and fuels my design work.
Thank you, Adebayo, for sharing your story with us on “Doing Life With…”
Thank you for having me.
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