Title: Entomologist’s ‘Culex‘ Cover Unveiled as Dutch Research’s ‘Book of the Year’
In a remarkable fusion of science and art, Dutch entomologist Harold Blom’s research thesis, ‘Chasing Culex,’ has made waves beyond its academic pursuit, claiming the coveted Coverprijs, judged by a distinguished nine-member panel.
The cover, a symmetrical piece reminiscent of old-school tattoos and tarot cards, was instantly recognized for its striking design and thematic impact by student redacteur Ilja Bouwknegt. "It’s not just aesthetically pleasing, it’s effective—you instantly understand it’s about mosquitoes and temperature," she said, pointing to the profound simplicity of the design crafted by Arnhem-based tattoo artist Renee Appelmans.
A Mug on a Mission**
Blom, undeterred, knew he had to feature a mosquito on the cover, adding, "I’m a big fan of Appelmans’ old-school style, and I’ve got some of her tattoos myself." Old-school art, he explains, is characterized by its flat colors, thick lines, and minimal detail, perfectly captured in Appelmans’ work.
A Tale of Two Seasons
Blom’s research, part of a larger Dutch inquiry into climate change‘s impact on mosquito-borne virus transmission risks, explores the ecological factors influencing mosquito populations across various regions in Holland. The cover, an evocative illustration of his research, features a stylized sun representing summer, an icy crystal signifying winter, rain droplets symbolizing climate, and blood droplets hinting at the mosquito’s bloody meal trail across various creatures.
"This feels more like an artwork than a typical thesis cover," praised Alfred Heikamp, formative of Resource. Heikamp describes the cover as a visually stunning, subtly menacing masterpiece that blends science and mystique.
Blom’s art deco-inspired cover, according to Anneke Groen, conservator of Special Collections, would seamlessly fit into her esteemed collection. Despite this, the cover will first be displayed in the promotion hall of Omnia, replacing existing portraits of professors, as the first of four such winners to grace its walls.
Other notable covers include those by Zambia’s Taonga Chirwa-Moonga and Brazil’s Bárbara Rocha Venancio Meyer-Sand, securing second and third places, respectively. ‘Chasing Culex,’ however, emerged triumphant, capturing the essence of entomology and climate science in a single, captivating image.
Main Image: Cover design by Renee Appelmans,Applied in ‘Chasing Culex’ by Harold Blom
