Mike Shayne, Murder Spins the Wheel, paperback cover 1970

Robert McGinnis made this paperback cover for "Mike Shayne, Murder Spins the Wheel" with confident brushstrokes and a daring palette. You can see the process right there on the surface. It's not hidden or overworked, and it's all part of the magic. Look at how the pink of the boat's windows clashes with the orange-red of the sky. It's like he’s not afraid to push the colors to the edge. The figure's pose is relaxed, and the red cloth barely covering her feels like a dare. It’s all about the gesture, the curve of the hip, the come-hither glance. I especially love the way McGinnis suggests detail with just a few strokes. The dials on the boat's control panel are scribbled in with such precision, yet they're also totally abstract. It reminds me of Alex Katz, who also captures a mood with such elegant economy. But ultimately, McGinnis is doing his own thing. He's not trying to be anything other than bold and a little bit naughty. And I love it.