It seems colorists are the unsung heroes of comics. But why is that? I mean can you picture Superman and not imagine him in a red cape with a big yellow "S"? I know I can’t. I have even known people who won’t touch the value size Essential volumes for the very fact that they seem to be allergic to black & white.
There’s been rumblings as of late amongst comic
creators concerning colorists and what they’re worth. A-list creators such as
Yanick Paquette and Scott Snyder have recently spoken up in support of
colorists, urging the big two publishers to pay them royalties like their peers,
as well as list their credit on the cover alongside the other talent. It’s a
valid point.
I wanted to pay tribute and highlight some of my
favorite colorists this week. When I asked myself, what book did the colors
really pop and elevate the art to another level, for me it was DC: The New
Frontier.
If you've ever been impressed with the coloring in a DC or Dark Horse comic, chances are, Dave Stewart was responsible. Today’s spotlight is on Stewart, one of the
all-time great colorists who frequently works with the best artists in comics.
Stewart’s work on DC: The New Frontier hit the
perfect balance of silver age pop art while still appearing contemporary. How he
manages to achieve both all rolled into one is what sets him apart from his
peers. Art by Darwyn Cooke.
The art on Batwoman, already in a class of its own, was still elevated by the ethereal quality Stewart’s coloring brought to it. A true master of his craft, the art by J.H. Williams seemingly brings out the best in him.
It’s difficult to pin Stewart down as his style is
distinct, yet versatile. When it comes to his work on the Hellboy line of
titles, his choice of muted color pallets evoking a moody atmosphere that
defines Hellboy’s world. Art by Mike Mignola.
Check back tomorrow to see who the next spotlighted colorist is!
No comments:
Post a Comment