Beneath the Layers is an exploration of how art and design can enhance the reading experience. The paintings evoke mood and aesthetic, inviting viewers to connect with the literature on multiple levels. The graphic design elements—book covers, spreads, and typography—complement the paintings, reinforcing the emotional core of the stories while adding a contemporary touch to engage modern readers. The different elements were all created with the others in mind, in order to work in harmony and compliment each other. This body of work showcases a system I have created to enhance the reading experience for modern readers and classic books. While I personally resonate with these books, it is about the system, not the specific books, since this system can engage readers of any classic story. Through Beneath the Layers, I’m encouraging a deeper engagement with classic stories by illustrating how visual art and design can enhance storytelling, inviting the viewer to experience the relationship between art, design, and literature in a meaningful way.