Above: Two pages from Tomb of Dracula No.1 (1972).
Gene Colan, one of the truly original greats of American comics passed away at the age of 84 on June 23rd 2011. His career spanned from the mid 1940s to the present day, covering an incredible amount of work including mystery and horror strips, Iron Man, Daredevil, Doctor Strange, Night Force, Howard the Duck, and, perhaps his most highly regarded run on a title, illustrating all 70 issues of Marvel's Tomb of Dracula (1972-79).
A master of illustrating mood and shadow, Gene Colan's fluid and highly distinctive style won him countless fans and the respect of his peers.
News of the artist's passing has quickly spread on the internet and tributes are already springing forth. Marvel Comics will be featuring a tribute to him in the back of the relaunched Daredevil No.1 in July.
http://www.genecolan.com/
http://www.comicbookresources.com/?page=article&id=32957
http://www.newsfromme.com/archives/2011_06_23.html
http://www.comicsbeat.com/2011/06/24/gene-colan-1926-2011/
Above: Two pages from 'Slow Glass' (Unknown Worlds of Science Fiction No.1, 1975)
Sad news indeed as another of the real greats passes away - I still remember picking up Captain America 121 (my first Colan US comic)and then 122 the just fell in love with his work. For such a lovely man he could really draw some creepy demons, vampires etc - luckily Gene left us so much work I will still have piles of stories I missed to go through. Thanks again Gene for all the thrills. McScotty
ReplyDeleteHe first totally transfixed me with his Daredevil in Marvel UK's Marvel Super Adventure (I think - they're in the loft) As it was MarvelUK I was introduced to his work in black and white of course - - even better. the shadows and perspective distortions were amazing. I agree - A true great. May his pencil rest in peace.
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