#ELECTION2016

                                                                                                     

This 2016 US Presidential Campaign and eventual election are both historical and by far the most unusual in recent times. The candidates; Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton are no strangers to the American cultural and political scene; but as familiar as we are familiar with them both, we continue to read, hear and see daily releases of new potentially damning revelations. Trump’s allegations of misconduct with women and Hillary’s misuse of a private email server are at present fore-most.  People across the United States and around the world are alarmed, saddened and dismayed to new levels. Many consider the candidates to be the least liked, trusted and admired; ever. What do we do?

The options are not much different than they have been for a while. The first is vote for the person you genuinely consider to be the best; that shares your beliefs, aspirations and vision of the future. Second; vote the lesser of two evils. This speaks for itself. The third being there are two other choices; the Green Party and the Libertarian Party. Forth; you can write in someone, living, dead or ficticous. Lastly; stay home, don’t participate. Again; what do we do?

In light of all that is being hashed out mere days before the final debate between Mr. Trump and Mrs. Clinton  I’m blogging and posting some of my own (you might call propaganda) political/editorial graphics. I’m looking to amuse here and hope they will strike some nerve and resonate with you. Please; enjoy these offerings!  

Albrecht Dürer The Remarkably Mystic

His status and skills are mythic in stature among the greatest of artists. The legend of Albrect Durer hails from a time when attention to detail was expected and admired. Durer saw like few did and even fewer see now.  The results from the steady and marvelously sure hand of the man; Durer, enraptures and amazes in the best of ways. Durer hailed from a time when alchemy was a universal force. He surely must have known something of the arcane arts. No other explanation could suffice for his achievements. His works spell-bind, mesmerize and shockingly mystify

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And since geometry is the right foundation of all painting, I have decided to teach its rudiments and principles to all youngsters eager for art.            

                                                                                        Albrecht Durer

In the nineteen sixties Durer’s “Praying Hands” were reproduced many times over. Plates, prints and plaques prominently adorned many walls and shelves in many homes. Reproductions were casted in bronze, carved in wood, printed on paper and fashioned in clay. The work was loved and well known but few knew the original artist's name. “The Praying Hands” were inspirational for the faithful and a popular standard of grace and elegance.    

The artist is chosen by God to fulfill his commands and must never be overwhelmed by public opinion.

                                                                                        Albrecht Durer

Durer was proficient as draftsman, engraver, painter and print maker. His works were imaginative and challenging; as well as spiritual. There is a gravitas to the work that rivals every era and nation in it's creation. Durer looked at the universe and marveled. He looked at every aspect of his/our world and was in awe. His goal was to capture in image as many things as any human could while honoring his God given talents. His eye was attuned to all; from the magnificence of the Heavens to a simple tuff of grass. The truth and beauty of Durer; captured in his work, lives vividly for all time.   

What beauty is, I know not, though it adheres to many things.

                                                                                         

                                                                                         Albrecht Durer

Neal Adams:The Art of Comic Book Art

This might be something of interest. There are those individuals historically and culturally ranking at the top of every human endeavor. Artists, politicians, scientists…those worthy of note. I recently joined the Neal Adams Appreciation Page on Facebook and have blogged about him here before. In the field of comic book art and graphic story-telling serving both as writer and illustrator Neal Adams remains consistently at the top. He is without doubt my personal favorite and probably among any list of the top three “All Time” favorites imaginable in this remarkably crowded field. Neal Adams: The Best-Ever-All Time!

The first illustration (top of page) from Batman Comics shows off his depth of cover illustration. The sense of urgency, the lighting and minimalist composition is shocking and intriguing to the viewer. It is a must read. What is the meaning of this unsolvable conundrum? How and why would Batman kill himself Bruce Wayne?

This next drawing is from Adam’s run on The Spectre Comics. It is a work that I am convinced belongs in the collection of MoMA or The Whitney. It should hang alongside Warhol, Lichtenstein and Johns. The composition is “perfection” the drama, shock, word placement and draftsmanship are all notable. This is among the finest that “Pop Art” has to offer. 

This is exactly what Adam’s does best; like no other (below). This page is original in design, layout and is cinematic in form. The dramatic lighting and attention to detail in the close-up portrait is amazing. His command of tool is masterful.

The Art of Neal Adams literally sings like no other. His is a treasure that to those who love and cherish his works is unsurpassed in an abundant field of brilliance.