The Art of Science Fiction

by Frank Kelly Freas, Isaac Asimov (Introduction)

An excellent overview of Frank Kelly Freas' work and vision. This book contains all the best, plus the inspiration behind the illustration, written by Mr. Freas himself. The art of this talented man ranges from the nymphette-type babes-in-space to spacemen to aliens to robots with a conscience. Freas, called the 'Dean of Science Fiction Artists,' was a science fiction and fantasy artist with a career spanning more than 50 years. Freas (pronounced like the English word 'freeze') was the son of two photographers, and was raised in Canada. He was educated at Lafayette High School in Buffalo, where he received training from long-time art teacher Elizabeth Weiffenbach. He entered the United States Army Air Forces right out of high school (Crystal Beach, Ontario, Canada). He flew as camera man for reconnaissance in the South Pacific and painted bomber noses during World War II. He then worked for Curtis-Wright for a brief period, then went to study at The Art Institute of Pittsburgh and began to work in advertising. He married Pauline (Polly) Bussard in 1952; they had two children, Jacqui and Jerry. Polly died of cancer in January 1987. In 1988 he married (and is survived by) Dr. Laura Brodian.

Genres: Art

120 pages, Paperback

First published December 28, 1977

About the author

Frank Kelly Freas, called the "Dean of Science Fiction Artists", was a science fiction and fantasy artist with a career spanning more than 50 years.
Freas (pronounced like the English word "freeze") was the son of two photographers, and was raised in Canada. He was educated at Lafayette High School in Buffalo, where he received training from long-time art teacher Elizabeth Weiffenbach. He entered the United States Army Air Forces right out of high school (Crystal Beach, Ontario, Canada). He flew as camera man for reconnaissance in the South Pacific and painted bomber noses during World War II. He then worked for Curtis-Wright for a brief period, then went to study at The Art Institute of Pittsburgh and began to work in advertising. He married Pauline (Polly) Bussard in 1952; they had two children, Jacqui and Jerry. Polly died of cancer in January 1987. In 1988 he married (and is survived by) Dr. Laura Brodian

Reviews

[Robert · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bought this when published and it came with a signed print. Met Mr. Freas and admired his paintings at many science fiction conventions in the 1970's.

[Seizure Romero · Rating 4 out of 5]

The only reason this doesn't get five stars is that it just doesn't have enough of his art.