Karl Ferris Analysis

Karl Ferris Analysis

Karl Ferris is seen as a “psychedelic” artist is known for his vivid and creative pieces which are induced by the culture of the 60’s movement and the use of drugs. He designed all three Jimi Hendrix albums which were all extravagant in their own way especially “axis: bold as love”. Here in this album art, there is a huge reference to Buddhism as Jimi Hendrix is referred to a ‘god like figure’ because of how he is portrayed with exaggerated multiple limbs, this can also illustrated with the shining sun which overshadows Jimi Hendrix to highlight his power and importance on the album cover. Other conventional references to the usage of power include the shaft and sword Jimi is holding in the picture with his arms wide open expressing his importance as a figure-head. Furthermore there is a heavy usage of the colour pink which connotes peace and love as this relates to Jimi Hendrix’s philosophy of world peace, comfort and a sense that everything will be okay.

The overbite of the multiple sankes behind Jimi Hendrix also expresses his importance and power and also has religious connotations representing the serpent sheilding Hendrix but also highlights his strength as this symbolism infers.