Frank Frazetta

Frank Frazetta (1928-2010)

Frank Frazetta was an American painter, illustrator, and sculptor whose work appeared in comics, on paperback novel covers, and museums from the time he was 15 and continued to draw attention until his death this past summer. I was first introduced to his work by a friend of mine, and I was immediately enthralled by it. I think was first drew me to his art was his portrayal of women. I've never been particularly defensive in regard to feminism, but as a comic book enthusiast I often become frustrated with way women are made to look in comics. The comic industry is designed to appeal to men, and most of the women in comics represent a virtually unattainable form of beauty. Frank Frazetta's art portrays women as powerful, and, while they nearly always appear in some degree of nudity, he paints them beautifully but naturally.

In addition to Frazetta's take on the female form, his art appealed to me on a simple, aesthetic level. His art is representational but fantastical and full of a feeling of other-worldliness. I think Frazetta's art stands out among many of his contemporaries if not for its beauty then for its uniqueness.

Websites:

http://www.poconorecord.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20100601/NEWS/6010325

Frank Frazetta's son reminisces about his father's life three weeks after his death in May 2010. His description of Frank Sr. offers insight into his life as a father and family man as well as an artist.

http://www.arthistoryarchive.com/arthistory/fantasy/Frank-Frazetta.html

This includes more complete history of Frazetta's life as an artist and a gallery of some of his artwork.

http://lambiek.net/artists/f/frazetta.htm

A fan of Frazetta displays more of Frazetta's art and history, focusing particularly on his work in comics.