Thursday, August 12, 2010

Bernard Fuchs (Who Else?)

Artist Bernard Fuchs (American 1932-2009) was the most influential illustrator in the 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s. A span that many consider as the most comprehensive in the history of illustration. No other illustrator had enjoyed such a longevity. His impact on my own work was determinant to a great degree. Every single work I've done carries one way or another, a trace of his own vision and approach..Even until now while painting, I surprise myself thinking sometimes 'what would have Bernie (as he was better known) done..Sadly he died last year.
For those who are a bit into composition. Please note where Fuchs has chosen to fit the boatman and the sun. Right on the crossing line of the golden mean/ratio..

8 comments:

  1. Very nice. Something about the Sun. So bright.

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  2. BERNIE FUCHS (1932-2009)

    A GIANT: BERNARD FUCHS (1932-2009)
    (The following article is from David Apatoffs' Blog, recently published as his tribute to Bernie Fuchs)

    Bernie Fuchs started from a most unlikely place and time.

    Born in a tiny rural town in the heart of the Great Depression, he grew up with no father, no assets or connections, no art training, and no prospects. He was even missing three fingers on his drawing hand (the result of an accident in his youth). Yet, Fuchs was quickly swept to the top of his profession on a wave of talent and personal quality. The New York Artists Guild named him "Artist of the Year" by the time he was thirty; he became the youngest illustrator ever elected to the Society of Illustrators Hall of Fame; and for over forty years, his work was selected by one jury after another at the Society as among the best of the year. (Try to think of another illustrator who has been as influential to the field in the latter half of the 20th century.) As Walt Reed wrote, Fuchs' pictures "are probably more admired-- and imitated-- than those of any other current illustrator."
    The rest is here:
    http://stl-illustrator.blogspot.com/2009/09/bernie-fuchs-1932-2009.html

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  3. His work is wonderful Tgia. Fuchs wrote and illustrated a children's book about our Pony Express. I have it in my classroom. I love his horse illustrations.


    Ride Like the Wind by Bernie Fuchs
    http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/images/0439266459/ref=dp_image_0?ie=UTF8&n=283155&s=books

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  4. Thanks vza..I've seen this illustration before but never as a cover..I used to be obsessed with his work, but then all beginners do..at least in my time..

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  5. I don't know if you're aware that before he died he visited Italy and made several painting..They're beautiful..

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  6. Tgia, you have told us you worked as an illustrator. Is it possible to post a sample or two?

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  7. I'll try..

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