Britney Spears has released the artwork for her highly anticipated eighth studio album Britney Jean. It's rather minimalist affair, showing Britney staring intently down the camera lens, while the title of the album is framed in a sort of neon love-heart. It's not the singer's best artwork, though it's certainly not her worst (remember Hit Me Baby One More Time?).

Britney Spears Britney Jean artworkBritney Spears' Britney Jean Artwork

Anyway, Spears released the artwork on her official website with a lengthy letter to fans updating them on the album's progression.

"I am putting the finishing touches on my new album, "Britney Jean" over the next few days and I am so excited for you to hear it.  I poured my heart and soul into this album and it's been an incredible journey.  I've learned a lot about myself, and as I am finishing, I am reminded of the incredible foundation that has supported me for the last 15 years," she said.  

"I have been through a lot in the past few years and it has really inspired me to dig deeper and write songs that I think everyone can relate to.  Working with people like Sia, William Orbit, and of course Will.i.am has been an amazing experience.  They have listened to all of my ideas and helped me bring them to life.  There are a lot of really fun, upbeat dance songs, but it was important to me that I show my strength, and my attitude, and my vulnerability.  Of course, I also have some surprises for you guys ;)" she added.

Listen to Britney Spears' Work Bitch:

So what else do we know about Britney Jean? Well, she teased the lead single Work Bitch from the record in August and released it in September after an online leak.

Friday's announcement also included news of Britney's second single - Perfume - which fans can now pre-order ahead of its release on November 5.

Britney Spears' Britney Jean is released on December 3, 2013.