| Grammy Award for Best Recording Package | |
|---|---|
| Awarded for | quality visual look of an album |
| Country | United States |
| Presented by | National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences |
| First awarded | 1959 |
| Currently held by | Dry Cleaning – Stumpwork (2024) |
| Website | grammy.com |
The Grammy Award for Best Recording Package is one of a series of Grammy Awards presented for the visual look of an album. It is presented to the art director of the winning album. An art director in the context of a music album is a professional responsible for overseeing the visual aspects of the album's production.
Often, the performer also takes on the role of art director, rather than that of the designer. For larger projects or those associated with major labels, professional art directors and designers are typically involved, as specified by contractual agreements. Independent musicians, on the other hand, may handle these roles themselves.
This role includes designing the album cover, selecting artwork and photography, and coordinating the overall visual presentation that aligns with the music's theme and the artist's image. The art director works closely with graphic designers, photographers, and stylists to create a cohesive aesthetic that complements the music and enhances the artist's branding. This position is crucial in shaping how listeners perceive the album through its visual elements.
The Grammy Award for Best Album Cover dates back to the first Grammy Awards in 1959. From 1962 to 1965 it was separated into Classical and Non-Classical divisions. From 1966 to 1968 it was separated into Graphic Arts and Photography divisions. In 1974, the name of the award was changed to Best Album Package, and changed again in 1994 to the current name.
In 1995, boxed sets were no longer eligible, as they were split off into a separate award, currently known as the Grammy Award for Best Boxed or Special Limited Edition Package.