Two illustration students have been shortlisted to redesign the cover of Stephen Hawking’s popular science book, A Brief History of Time.

University of Hertfordshire students, Harry Woodgate and Stephen Young are contenders in the non-fiction category for the 2018 Penguin Random House Student Design Award.

Stephen and Harry’s striking redesign ensured they were chosen from over 2,100 submissions making it into the ten-person shortlist. 

Harry Woodgate's design 

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Harry Woodgate

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The boys will now go against nine other designers in the non-fiction category.

Harry and Stephen were among designers selected from three categories (Adult Fiction, Adult Non-Fiction and Children’s) who received feedback on their entries from art directors at Penguin. They will now have the chance to refine their work before final judging happens.

The winners of each category will receive a work placement at Penguin random House UK design studios, and a £1,000 cash prize. 

Stephen Young's design 

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Stephen Young

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Speaking about their experience, Harry said: “I think as an illustrator, I often feel stuck in this middle ground between creating work that is very representational or figurative, versus work that is more graphic and design-led, and I felt like this project has really helped me work out how to navigate and combine both of those approaches.”

Stephen added: “I feel incredibly honoured to be considered for the Award as I often find it difficult to have confidence in the work I produce, and to get this far is extremely encouraging.”

The judging panel comprises art directors from Penguin as well as guests from across the design and publishing industry, including Malorie Blackman, Anthony Burrill, Grace Winteringham, Orlando Weeks, Indi Davies and Tom Sanderson.