Abstract

Article and Cover Design
‘The Iris Murdoch Review’ is the journal of the Iris Murdoch Research Centre and Society – which aims to represent the breadth and eclecticism of contemporary critical approaches to Murdoch. Petrie also designed the cover for the journal.
This 2800 word article offers a reflection on an emergent creative strategy that explores how aspects of the novels of Dame Iris Murdoch might be visualised. The methods involve:

• Reading the novel in order
• Drawing to visualise aspects of novels
• Development/combining of images through drawing, painting, and printmaking
• Printmaking exploring variations on a theme
• Engagement with Murdoch community/literature to review/reconsider possible meanings/directions of artworks

Four artworks by Kevin Petrie were reproduced in the journal for the first time:

The Enchanter
2023
Acrylic on wooden panel
60x42cm
Photo: David Williams

The Unicorn
2023
Ink on paper
21x29.7cm
Photo: David Williams

In the Nightjar Alley
2023
Ink on paper
21x29.7cm
Photo: David Williams

The Bell
2023
Ink on paper
21x29.7cm
Photo: David Williams

The cover was also designed by Kevin Petrie showing work in progress, materials, tools, and Iris Murdoch novels shown in a display case at the exhibition Other Journeys – Paintings and Drawing by Kevin Petrie curated by Karolynne Hart at The Gallery, Gateshead Library 28th April – 8th July 2023. Photo: David Williams.