Review
Years of drawind and painting them have led me no nearer to truly defining dragons. Somewhere in their diversity resides an archetype that escapes me yet. Nor can I impose upon them a recognizable style of dragon, something that the enviable likes of Ciruelo, Michael Whelan or Wayne Anderson so excel at. I leaf through books of dragons painted by Rackham, Vasnetzov, Doré, Blake or Von Stuck. I have a few dozen serious non-fiction books on dragon myth, all avidly read and dog-eared, so I must be closing in. The trail is clear, but they remain elusive. Somewhere, some day, in a painting or a drawing, I know I have a rendez-vous with the Dragon. --Extract form the foreword of Dragon Art written by John Howe, October 2008
Product Description
'Dragon Art' is a stunning survey of amazing contemporary fantasy artwork, specifically of dragons - that most popular of fantasy creatures. The inspirational foreword is by fantasy legend and Lord of the Rings film concept artist John Howe. The 'Masters of Dragon Art' section includes such favourites as Don Maitz and Bob Eggleton. A fascinating discussion of dragons and fantasy art runs throughout the book, alongside a large selection of the best work out there at the moment, which is interspersed with features presenting artists' works-in-progress, providing invaluable insight on technique. 'Dragon Art' is an inspiration and a feast for the eyes. Also included are feature spreads showcasing artists' step-by-step stages leading to final pieces, revealing invaluable tips on technique. dragon Art is an essential title for anyone who is passionate about the skill and imagination of top-class fantasy artists and the awe-inspiring allure of dragons.
About the Author
GRAEME AYMER has been writing about creativity and design for opver ten years for titles that include 'Computer Arts', 'Computer Arts Projects' and 'MacWorld'. Raised on a diet of Marvel comics, Muppet monsters and battlestars, he was born in North London in grew up in such contrasting climes as Jamaica, The Bahamas and Massachesetts before returning to London just in time for the 1990s. JOHN HOWE is best known for his work based on J.R.R. Tolkien's worlds; alogside Alan Lee, Howe was lead caonceptual artist of Peter Jackson's 'The Lord of the Rings' movie trilogy, and his of the dragon Smaug has set a standard. He is by no means limited to Tolkien, however: his work has also been inspired by such legends as Beowulf and he has ilustrated many other books, including Anne McCaffrey's 'A Diversity of Dragons'. He also contributed to the film adaptation of 'The Lion, The Witch ad the Wardrobe' by C.S. Lewis. Most recently, Howe has published a book showcasing and exploring the inspiration and techniques behind his own dragon artworks: 'John Howe, Forging Dragons'.
