Funeral of the Heart #[nn]

Leah Hayes sets a striking tone with this 2008 Fantagraphics release, whose stark black-and-white cover presents the title in bold theatrical lettering on a spotlight-lit stage, framed by drawn curtains — an image that feels both intimate and a little haunting. The stark contrast of Hayes's pencil and ink work gives the whole composition a handcrafted, expressively moody quality that signals something personal and carefully made. At $14.95, this is an inviting entry point into Hayes's singular artistic vision.