circa 1998

Al Williamson

From his work on the classic EC Comics of the fifties to Star Wars in the eighties and nineties, Al Williamson's artwork continues to inspire and amaze.

My first introduction to his work was as a student at the Joe Kubert School of Cartoon and Graphic Art. Recognizing my affection for lush pen and ink work, a classmate handed me a copy of a comic book reprinting Williamson's work on the Secret Agent Corrigan comic strip. I was hooked immediately.

For me, Williamson's strength as an illustrator lies in his figure drawing. His men are the embodiment of heroism. His women, strong and sensuous. Couple this with an uncanny knack for capturing an environment (from urban metropolis to alien landscape) and you have the makings for the best in fantasy illustration!

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