A4 Casebound Books.
Cover onto 170gsm Silk.
Wrapped over greyboard case.
Matt laminated to the outer.
Gloss Spot UV Varnish to outer.
2x 4pp End Papers unprinted onto 175gsm Colorplan Ebony.
144 inside pages onto 150gsm Silk (15mm spine).
Full colour print throughout.
Trimmed, collated and case bound
Every detail of this hardback edition, from the tactile sensation of the matt laminated cover to the lustrous gloss Spot UV varnish, has been meticulously printed to showcase Julio Cesar Battistelli’s dynamic skateboard art. Ex Why Zed’s collaboration with Julio was a journey marked by attention to detail and a commitment to creative integrity. From the first welcoming message, Ex Why Zed promised a guiding hand until the book’s completion, and they delivered on this promise, providing clear, detailed answers to technical queries and demonstrating flexibility with budget constraints without compromising on quality. This introduction sets the stage for an exploration of not only the vibrant visual feast that “The Skate Art of Yaia” provides but also the behind-the-scenes dance of decision-making and collaboration that brought this stunning piece of skateboard culture to life.
Upon opening “The Skate Art of Yaia,” one is met with an immediate visual contrast: the striking Colorplan Ebony endpapers set against the bright yellow cover, which houses the artist’s emblem in a discreet but deliberate gloss Spot UV Varnish. This choice of materials and finishes speaks to the ethos of the skateboarding community—a world that embraces boldness and underground elegance.
The tactile experience of the book, with its matt-laminated cover and silk paper pages, enhances the reader’s journey through Yaia’s artistic evolution. One can feel the weight of the greyboard case, a metaphorical representation of the concrete parks and urban landscapes that are inherent to the sport and its artistry.
Turning the pages, one is taken on a chronological journey through Yaia’s artistic growth. The early chapters present hyper-detailed black and white drawings, reminiscent of the gritty, raw beginnings of street skateboarding. As the years progress, a burst of colour enters the frame, reflecting the vibrancy and explosive creativity of the culture.
The page layout, with meticulously neat page numbers and chapter titles in reversed-out yellow, echoes the precise and considered design choices that are integral to creating a successful skateboard deck. These design elements do more than serve their functional purpose; they narrate the story of a subculture that is both meticulous and wild, calculated and free-spirited.
What sets this book apart is the intimate glimpse into Yaia’s creative process. Through detailed spreads that showcase skateboard after skateboard, the reader witnesses the transformation of rough sketches to polished art. It’s a visual conversation about the progression of ideas, the refinement of strokes, and the bold decisions that lead to iconic designs.
The typography used throughout the book is not merely a vessel for text but an extension of the art itself. Each font, each letter, is crafted with the same attention to detail and cultural understanding as the images they accompany. From clean and solid lettering to dynamic graphic design, the typographic usage in this book is a testament to Yaia’s multifaceted talent.
• Embrace the culture you’re designing for; let it inform your aesthetic decisions.
• Pay attention to the tactile elements of your work; how it feels can be as impactful as how it looks.
• Allow your style to evolve naturally; growth is a sign of authenticity.
• Show your work’s progression; it humanises the art and inspires others.
• Consider how typography can complement and enhance your visuals.
“The Skate Art of Yaia” stands as a monumental piece in the landscape of skateboard art books. It is not only a tribute to the artist but also an invitation to understand the deep connection between a sport and its expression through art. From the choice of printing specifications to the visual storytelling elements, every aspect of this publication is a meticulous tribute to the soul of skateboarding.
• Proactive client engagement from Ex Why Zed
• Attentive support for the creative and technical process
• Transparent pricing and options offered
• Solutions provided for shipping and production concerns
Julio Cesar Battistelli approached Ex Why Zed with the aim of materialising his vision for “The Skate Art of Yaia.” His initial inquiries were met with a warm welcome, outlining the comprehensive support system Ex Why Zed would provide. The client’s aspiration to create a tangible representation of his artwork was met with Ex Why Zed’s expertise in creative hardback book printing.
During the email exchanges, various technical and logistical questions arose. Julio required clarity on the printing process, specifications, and adjustments, all of which were addressed with detailed guidance by Ex Why Zed. Shipping to the US presented challenges, notably with customs regulations, but Ex Why Zed displayed remarkable patience and problem-solving abilities, ensuring the client’s needs were met without compromising the project’s integrity.
Julio’s final approval and appreciation for the services rendered reflect a successful client-company relationship. Ex Why Zed’s commitment to quality service and client satisfaction shines through the entire conversation, which is best encapsulated by a featured comment from Julio expressing gratitude for the exemplary assistance received.
In sum, the collaboration between Julio Cesar Battistelli and Ex Why Zed is a perfect example of how experience, expertise, and customer care can turn a creative concept into a beautifully printed reality.
The journey through “The Skate Art of Yaia” is a compelling narrative of artistic evolution, from the first black and white sketches to the final polished masterpieces. The email interactions reveal a harmonious collaboration, with Ex Why Zed guiding and facilitating every step of Julio Cesar Battistelli’s vision. This case study is a testament to the seamless blend of artist’s passion and printer’s expertise, culminating in a skateboard art book that stands as a beacon of creative and printing brilliance.
#SkateArt #Yaia #BookPrinting #DesignJourney #SkateboardCulture #CreativeCollaboration #ExWhyZed