«Alte Wege neu gehen» (Treading Old Paths Anew) by Martina S. Glatt, a tour guide and herbalist, is a two-part book exploring the author's native region, its history, and customs. As an integral part of the proposed concept, the first section features carefully researched and selected botanical illustrations dating back to the 13th century. These illustrations underscore the long-standing tradition of herbal knowledge, visually capturing how this wisdom has been passed down through generations. The design employs black, white, and red – colors associated with the regional patron saints – along with green to represent local flora.
Gradients connect personal photographs with archival material throughout the book, creating visual cohesion and elegantly addressing variations in source material quality.
The second part, titled «May heaven unite our laughter and tears» and subtitled «Farewell letters to my daughter,» documents the author's experience following the loss of her daughter to cancer in 2012. This section comprises diary entries and letters presented with a minimalist design. Pages feature a gradually deepening blue hue, reflecting the progression of the illness.
The two sections are joined through a unique back-to-back binding, allowing for separate structures while symbolically and physically connecting the narratives.
