Manic
‘Manic’ by Halsey, a music album released in 2020 is about the emotional spectrum undergone by people with bipolar disorder. With manic being the state of ecstasy on one end. There is always a question of ‘what are we allowed to feel?’… when we are unclear on which of our emotions can be validated. The project is a re-design of the album cover that seeks to capture the raw, vulnerable tone of the album, reflecting the complex range of emotions expressed in Halsey’s lyrics. In addition, the design includes the creation of an Instagram post aimed at driving engagement and expanding visibility via social media.
Ideation
The first step to dealing with mental illness is to accept and be transparent with oneself. Heart with the seat of emotions is wrapped with translucent fins, as one of the music videos is shot in an aquarium.
“What are we allowed to feel?” Even when certain emotions are painful and everything seems to be falling apart, they remain an essential part of the experience.
The state of manic or happiness is not a destination that can be reached. The route is never exact or linear.
Veins that carry our life force are connected to a chain of emotions we face.
Analysis
WHAT- The album is about bi-polar disorder and the different emotions the person undergoes. Manic is the state of ecstasy, even though we feel very low sometimes.
WHO- It is usually experienced by teenagers and adolescents.
WHY- The album was made to make people aware of the emotions they go through and to feel validated about it.
WHERE- It is globally listened to.
WHEN- The album was released in 2020
HOW- The album is not too harsh and is slightly mellow, and the songs are of the genre-electropop ad alternative rock.
Colour Palette
The color palette is inspired by the album’s music videos and visualizers, as well as Pantone’s 2022 Color of the Year, ‘Very Peri’. Purple reflects the fusion of red and blue—symbolizing the emotional contrasts of bipolar disorder.