Saturday, June 14, 2014

Brian Froud (and friend)

I drew this portrait of Brian Froud (author of Faeries and Trolls) as he gave his lecture at Illustration Master Class in Massachusetts.

OK, I took a few liberties. He didn't have the top hat or the little fellow on his shoulder. But his wonderful faith in the reality of his unseen world had me believing, too.

7 comments:

Tom Hart said...

I know I'm just echoing what others have already said, but I can't let these recent posts pass without remarking about the impact that Brian's book Faeries had on me many years ago. His ability to bring imaginary creatures to life was unparalleled. And in a world that included the Disney artists and so many others, that's saying a lot!

Your painting is wonderful, James and it does Brian justice.

Tom Hart said...

Actually, looking at my library, I'm reminded that my first introduction to Brian Froud's work was "The Land of Froud" (1977). I think (?) that preceded the publication of Faeries, for what it's worth...

James Gurney said...

Tom, yes-- me, too. I liked "Land of Froud" so much when I found it as an art student that I cut it up into pages and put them up on my apartment walls. The only other book I did that too was the Pyle book.

Salty Pumpkin Studio said...

The expressions on their faces that you've captured are attitude perfection.

Unknown said...
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Unknown said...

I love this, wonderful spirit:) thank you for sharing your spirited world with us:)

LizzVisions said...



Such a cool portrait! Your illustrations always have such character!

Smile a little at my blog here :]