An Analysis of Bülent Erkmen's Book Cover Designs Between 1979-1983 According to Erwin Panofsky's Iconographic and Iconological Criticism Method

Abstract

In this article, the book covers designed by Bülent Erkmen between 1973-1983 were analyzed based on Erwin Panofsky's "Iconographic and Iconological Art Criticism" method, in line with the Secondary or Conventional Meaning (Iconographic Analysis) method, which is one of these criticism methods. In iconography, in order to know what a work tells or what it makes visible, it is necessary to know all the features of the work. By evaluating the conventional meaning of 6 book covers designed by Bülent Erkmen for different publishing houses, the stories and symbolic ties in the designs were compiled, and the main feeling of the study was tried to be revealed with this method. In the study, literature review from descriptive analysis methods, document review from qualitative research methods and Secondary or conventional meaning (Iconographic Analysis), one of Erwin Panofsky's "Iconographic and Iconological Art Criticism" methods, were used. Erkmen tried to reflect the main feeling of the book in his design by adhering to the narratives of the authors in the book cover designs he made in a 10-year period. Erkmen, who applied a unique linear method in accordance with the sociological structure of the period, applied the symbolic bonds in a way that would form a unity with his art. On the other hand, Erkmen draws attention with the designs on the cover of the book that offer signs from the story in the content. In the analysis, it has been revealed that Erkmen's use of allegories is not a coincidence, and that he exhibits integrity with his art.