In the early 80's TSR transitioned from using talented amateurs to hiring professional illustrators. One of the first was Larry Elmore, this marked a huge change in the overall look and feel of D&D products. I can't help but have a fondness for this art since it was when I was in high school and starting to take a serious interest in drawing and painting. These are some of my favorite illustrations by Larry Elmore.
This was the first piece of art by Elmore I had seen. What's not to love? Pig faced orcs! An epic encounter with a cavalier, and a dynamic composition. Ok, maybe those orcs do look a little like people in masks, but I still like this one.
Sometimes Elmore could really create an emotional scene:
For a time this was very much my mental image of what D&D was:
And I can't believe I just discovered this while looking up reference for this post. Larry Elmore illustrated the arcade cabinet of one of my favorite video games of all time. I should have recognized his style!
The cavalier is one of favorites as well. I cut it out and taped to the front of my trapper keeper. :)
ReplyDeleteI'm not a fan of the new art style, I don't know what it is, I just can't get into it. To me, Elmore was Dungeons & Dragons and always will be. Yes, you had lots of other great artists contributing to the books, but Elmore was ALWAYS the star of the show.
ReplyDeleteThe cover of Dragon #62 (which was my first issue) is my favorite Elmore piece.
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