Melanin Aesthetic Book Concept
Melanin Aesthetic is a mock-up concept that highlights modern Black designers through real, insightful interviews across product design, advertising, packaging, freelance work, and more. It’s all about representation—showing Black youth what’s possible in the design world.
Along with interviews, it also spotlights influential Black designers who paved the way but don’t always get the recognition they deserve. The book is both inspiration and a guide for the next generation of Black creatives. Melanin Aesthetic earned two Gold Awards at the American Advertising Awards — including the top honor for Best in Show.
Overall, Melanin Aesthetic is about opening doors—celebrating the creatives shaping the industry now and honoring the ones who made their paths possible. It’s a reminder that there’s space for Black designers to thrive, create, and lead.
Melanin Aesthetic by James Johnson