Beyond the Clouds: The Lifetime Trek of Walter "Matt" Jefferies, Artist and Visionary

by Richard L. Jefferies

Beyond the Clouds is the beautiful, full-color biography of legendary aviation artist Walter (Matt) Jefferies who was best known for his work as art director of the original Star Trek television series - and for designing the most widely recognized spacecraft of all time, the U.S.S. Enterprise. In his lifetime, Jefferies worked on set and art designs for over fifteen movies and television series including Little House on the Prairie, Dallas, Ben Casey and Love, American Style. He also produced many aircraft paintings and technical designs which have been exhibited in museums all over the world. Illustrated with images of his striking paintings, Jefferies' story is enriched with a historical backdrop, personal anecdotes, and plenty of information on Star Trek, aviation, and set design. This unique fusion of art and aircraft is revealed through pages that trace the life and times of the aviation expert who helped shape the face of science fiction.

Genres: Star Trek

314 pages, Paperback

First published March 1, 2008

Reviews

[Brent · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a wonderful book, but slim on Star Trek content.

[Ben Cooper · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great biography of a very talented man and his family as his journey took him around the world and eventually around the universe. This was such an easy, enjoyable read with loads of history included. It actually shows the benefit of growing up with a family focus and making it part of your career. Thanks for all the effort you poured into your work: Star Trek, Laugh In, Little House on the Prarie, etc.

[Mark · Rating 4 out of 5]

The life history of the man who designed the Enterprise. Fascinating in itself, it also gives insight in American society during the both World Wars and the Great Depression.