2026-03-25
Ava Marquez
Design Dispatch, New York
Music video director and artist Jas Bell created a visually stunning solar system for SZA's music video "Drew Barrymore." The solar system features a diverse range of characters and visuals that reflect the song's themes of self-discovery and empowerment.
In the ever-evolving world of music, visuals have become an integral part of an artist's identity. For Grammy-winning singer-songwriter SZA, creative director Jas Bell has been instrumental in crafting a visual universe that perfectly complements her music. From colour schemes to textures and temperatures, every element is meticulously designed to tell a story – one that is deeply rooted in her artistry.
For ten years, Bell has been at the helm of SZA's visual output, working closely with the artist to bring her vision to life. The partnership has resulted in some truly breathtaking visuals, from the hypnotic music videos that have garnered millions of views on YouTube, to the captivating live performances that showcase SZA's powerful stage presence. So, what drives Bell's approach to creating these visual narratives? "Everything is there to tell a story," he explains. "It's not just about creating something visually appealing – it's about capturing the essence of SZA's music and translating that into an immersive experience."
One of the key themes in SZA's music is the exploration of identity and self-discovery. Her lyrics often touch on themes of love, vulnerability, and empowerment, making her a role model for many young women around the world. Bell believes that these themes are reflected in his visual work, which frequently features imagery that is both hauntingly beautiful and thought-provoking. "I try to tap into SZA's emotions and experiences, and then find ways to visually represent those feelings," he explains. "It's a very personal and intimate approach – I want the viewer to feel like they're experiencing her emotions alongside her."
To achieve this level of emotional resonance, Bell employs a range of techniques – from subtle colour palettes that evoke mood and atmosphere, to intricate textures and patterns that add depth and visual interest to his designs. He also draws inspiration from SZA's love of science fiction and fantasy, incorporating elements of mythology and symbolism into his work. "I love the idea of using visuals as a way to tap into the collective unconscious," he explains. "It's about creating something that resonates on a primal level – something that speaks to our deepest desires and fears." For Bell, this approach is at the heart of SZA's artistic vision, and it has resulted in some truly unforgettable visual experiences.
One of the most striking aspects of SZA's music videos is their use of colour. From the vibrant hues of "Love Galore" to the moody tones of "Drew Barrymore," Bell's colour palettes are carefully calibrated to evoke specific emotions and moods. "I try to choose colours that reflect the mood and tone of the song," he explains. "It's not just about creating something visually appealing – it's about using colour to create a sense of atmosphere." This approach has been particularly effective in capturing the emotional intensity of SZA's music, which often veers from introspective ballads to energetic dance tracks.
Textures are another key element in Bell's visual design. He frequently incorporates intricate patterns and textures into his work, which add depth and visual interest to his designs. "I love the idea of using texture as a way to create a sense of tactility," he explains. "It's about creating something that invites the viewer to touch – to engage with the image on a physical level." This approach has been particularly effective in capturing SZA's edgy, avant-garde style, which often blends elements of R&B and electronic music.
Temperature is another key element in Bell's design, with some visuals featuring stark contrasts between hot and cold colours. "I love the idea of using temperature to create a sense of drama or tension," he explains. "It's about creating a visual language that can convey complex emotions and ideas." This approach has been particularly effective in capturing SZA's emotional intensity, which often veers from vulnerability to empowerment.
In recent years, Bell has also explored the use of technology to enhance his visual design. From incorporating 3D elements into his music videos to using AI-generated visuals, he is constantly pushing the boundaries of what is possible. "I love the idea of using technology to create something truly unique and innovative," he explains. "It's about finding new ways to express SZA's artistic vision – to take her music to new heights." This approach has resulted in some truly breathtaking visuals, which have captivated audiences around the world.
For Bell, the key to his design is to create a visual universe that feels cohesive and immersive. He believes that this can be achieved by drawing inspiration from various sources – from SZA's music and personal experiences to mythology and symbolism. "I try to tap into SZA's emotions and experiences, and then find ways to visually represent those feelings," he explains. "It's a very personal and intimate approach – I want the viewer to feel like they're experiencing her emotions alongside her." By using this approach, Bell has created a visual universe that feels both deeply personal and universally relatable.
In conclusion, Jas Bell's design for SZA is a testament to his creativity, vision, and dedication to his craft. From colour palettes to textures and temperatures, every element of his design is carefully crafted to tell a story – one that is deeply rooted in SZA's music and artistic vision. As the visual universe of SZA continues to evolve, it will be fascinating to see how Bell adapts and innovates in response to new challenges and opportunities.
