It’s Off My Bucket List!
This item has been on my bucket list for ages… and I’m not just talking about becoming the greatest tap dancer in the world (an actual life goal from when I was six).
Nope, I mean buying the 25th anniversary edition of the classic book, Faeries. The original version came my way during my teenage years (I say teen years, you think secret hell.) It got my imagination going and provided a mental escape hatch in what was otherwise a crap time. The book still influences me to this day.
Wondering what the big deal is about? There’s a great guided video tour here. But for the purposes of this post, I’ll share why I love this work.
Simply out, the illustrations are sublime.
There are two artists who created this book. The first is Alan Lee, a guy who’s arguably best known for illustrating the Lord of the Rings novels. Then there’s Brian Froud, someone I consider the go-to guy for all faerie art. Both are mind-blowing in terms of their creativity and skill.
Here’s why the Faerie illustrations are special (to me, anyway). These artists don’t just draw a cute elves. They really think through the particular world behind each creature. For instance, a beautiful elf may have clothing with lovely geometric patterns… which then match designs behind them… and all carry a subtle visual theme of swords. The resulting message is one that combines beauty and death. Perfect for the fae.
And when it comes to evil creatures? Their work is even better. Some fae have a particular texture to their flesh… or no skin at all. I’d link in a bunch of their images, but that can get me in trouble. (I’m not even kidding. I’ve gotten–and paid–hefty fines in the past.) Instead, I’ll share a few pics that I own from my upcoming book, DARE. As you might imagine, this new novel is heavily influenced by Faerie.
I’ll kick off with the antagonist.
The Dragon Imperator
What I love about this illustration is how it takes an old image–namely a mysterious figure in a dark cloak–and adds something fresh. The extra arms are often used in Eastern art to show higher power levels, and I think that idea is conveyed here as well. The sword is a great addition (and it plays right into my story, but that’s a post for another time). And the style of illustration is rough and harsh, which also tells the story of the character. This piece is created by a Russian artist who goes by the name of Warm Tail.
Lady Kae
In a lot of ways, this is a standard image of a gorgeous elf. What makes this illustration special is the cone-style hat and unusual jewelry. This lady is clearly not your average fae. And in DARE, she certainly plays a special role. This pic is an adaptation of a full-color piece by one of my favorite artists, Majorgaine.
And here’s a snapshot of me happily coddling my new find. So exciting to find it on a rare books Amazon page as the original is out print. Bucket list item… done!
On a final note, if you want to find out more about DARE, you can check it out on Nook, Amazon, GooglePlay, Apple & Kobo.
The post It’s Off My Bucket List! appeared first on Monster House Books.
