Michelle Velvin: "To Let the Light In"
Photography, Packaging
April - July 2026
"Oro Records is proud to present the first solo release "To Let The Light In" from Michelle Velvin. After over a decade as an established composer, performer, and one of Aotearoa's leading harpists, Velvin has created an album that acts as both a sonic space and journey incorporating a fairytale-like quality that draws upon the words of poets such as Ursula Bethell, Robyn Hyde, and longtime collaborator Genevieve Davidson, as well as poetic lyrics by Michelle herself that further enrich the enchanting environment she has created with her expert harp playing and thoughtful compositions."
- Oro Records NZ
Michelle Velvin is a Wellington based harpist, composer and teacher, and in 2026 she was preparing to release her first solo album To Let the Light In. I was honoured to be asked to collaborate with Michelle on her album cover design. We worked closely together on a variety of different styles and treatments. Her music was the ultimate source of inspiration: the sonic landscape pulled us in the visual direction of forests, grottos, light, whispers and magic.
The concept soon evolved into a whimsical photography shoot that we did together in Trelissick Park at the end of June. I found some small doors that would be perfect for hiding in nooks and crannies of a forest floor, and my husband helped me paint them a warm yellow that matched Michelle's front door and mailbox. With a couple of lights, my Nikon and our cold weather gear, Michelle and I were soon crouching down in the mud and arranging twigs and leaves to create compositions that felt like discovering a warm little musical secret. It was a fun day getting our hands dirty in the name of art and I am so proud of the images we created together for her first album.
"To Let the Light In" was released 2 October 2026 on Oro Records.
Let's make something amazing together
I take on a limited number of freelance and volunteer design projects each year. Get in touch now to secure your spot.