His
work is decorative, minimal intricate, detailed and refined. The work in many
ways is a genre unto itself. Artist/Illustrator Jae lee is the elegance among
the utilitarian, the poetry among the mundane. lee is best known for his still
bourgeoning career as a graphic story-teller for Marvel and DC comics. His
assignments consist of the “special” and the “heavy-weight” projects. Marvel’s
adaptation of the Stephen King series “The Dark Tower” went to lee and it is to
date is his most powerful achievement. The panels are rich with substance,
alluring and visceral to an extreme. The ‘Tower” books; scripted by Peter David
with King himself serving as creative and executive director are treasures.
Lee is easily placing himself among the greats both in and
outside of the comic medium with past and contemporary artists. Visionaries
from Maxfield Parrish to Chris Van Allsburg are rivaled and complimented by
lee. The master sculpture Michelangelo can even be referenced by the work of
lee. The “Pieta” seems to be an inspiration for Lee who is quickly becoming a
master of his craft and as an artist surpassing all norms.
“The Illustrated Dracula” by Bram Stoker illustrated by Jae
lee is one of the handsomest volumes of any modern publication. The book fits
perfectly into the hand. It is precisely weighted and just plain feels good to hold.
In another time this wouldn’t be so much a consideration but in this
increasingly print less society it is a committed endorsement of the ancient
process of book making. The paperback edition in design gives the illusion of
worn leather and it is tompe-l’oeil used
to spectacular effect. I am reminded of a church hymnal in that it is very
equal in look and size. The illustrations are not intrusive or distractions but
give the edition an intended welcoming illumination. The enhanced drawings are
again minimal, gothic and beautiful.
Jae Lee is an artist of the highest standards; someone to
count on to deliver and to thrill. Look for him in a book store near you. The
Graphic Novel section would be the place to begin; then on to the classics of
literature and beyond.
