Fantastic Paintings Of Frazetta by J. David Spurlock (book review)
Just when I thought I had a decent selection of Frank Frazetta artbooks in my collection, I couldn’t resist pulling an over-size hardback on the subject. Although it covers pretty much the same ground, what does make it stand out is seeing Frazetta’s preliminary designs and a habit of repainting or improving the original paintings sent to various publishers which makes this book unique and of interest to artists. For the novice artist it should be reassuring that even the best is never satisfied with his work and capable of doing the same piece over a few times.
I do find it odd how author Dave Spurlock goes on over how much the cost of the original art is bought on the open market as its way out of range of the standard art fan. Yes, we know its expensive but it looks more like rubbing our noses in it.
If you want to see Frazetta’s art at a large size without necessarily pulling art prints from his company, then this is also a good option. Do I have to tell you how good his paintings are? Even 9 years after his death, Frazetta is still the benchmark to equal and even he tried to out-do himself.
GF Willmetts
December 2020
(pub: Vanguard Publishing, 2020. 115 page large hardback. Price: I pulled my copy for £31.00 (UK). ISBN: 978-1-934331-81-1)
check out website: www.vanguardpublishing.com