Michael Whelan’s Works Of Wonder (book review).
Is it a niche hobby to select an artist and determine the availability and cost of acquiring an early or any of their artbooks? If it’s not a common pastime, more people should try it, even if just as a mental exercise via a Google search. This method is how I stumbled upon Michael Whelan’s Works Of Wonder.
First published in 1987, the book features an introduction by none other than Isaac Asimov. He provides commentary on Whelan’s cover designs for his “Foundation” series, which are also showcased in this collection. What sets this book apart is that, in addition to the full-sized illustrations, readers are treated to some preliminary designs and Whelan’s personal insights about each. Interestingly, there is a curious omission related to ‘2010’; Whelan describes an alternative cover design but doesn’t include its visual representation.
By 1987, Whelan’s art was a dominant presence on numerous science fiction book covers. For fans of his “Dragonrider” covers crafted for Anne McCaffrey, you’ll find them in this collection. Notably, during this period, he was recuperating from a fractured right hand, yet his plaster cast was cleverly designed so he could continue painting. I’m curious about the story behind that injury.
Whelan primarily used oils and acrylics for his art. While he did employ an airbrush, he wasn’t particularly fond of it.
One cannot help but admire Whelan’s mastery in creating building textures, which enhances the realism in his work. He often used human models to ensure accuracy in lighting. Achieving realism, even in genres like science fiction, fantasy, or horror, is about convincing the viewer of the painting’s authenticity, suggesting that the artist has firsthand knowledge of the depicted world. This might be a key to Whelan’s widespread acclaim.
Whelan’s appreciation for Edgar Rice Burroughs’ “Barsoom” series is evident. Though he had always hoped to be commissioned for a cover, it was only three years into his career that he received the opportunity from Del Rey. This collection includes those designs, accompanied by his reflections. Even in 1987, Whelan believed there was room for improvement in some of his works – a sentiment many artists can relate to, always seeing potential enhancements in their creations.
The book concludes with a detailed insight into Whelan’s creative process, using the “Moereta” cover as a case study.
Constructed with robust card pages, the quality of this book is impressive even by today’s standards. If you’re an admirer of Michael Whelan and haven’t acquired this book yet, it’s a valuable addition to consider.
GF Willmetts
August 2023
(pub: Columbus Books/Ballantine Books/Random House, 1987. 108 page illustrated large hardback. Price: varies. ISBN: 0-86287-391-6)
