I first experienced the art of Charles Vess through the issues and cover art of the Vertigo/DC Comics series The Sandman and Swamp Thing during the 1990's. Along with the stories in those comic books, his artwork definitely left it's impression on me as well. An ethereal feel to the art, sort of a blend of the old fashioned Art Nouveau style with classic fantasy art. And a few years later I read through the Neil Gaiman and Charles Vess illustrated novel Stardust (after I watched the movie, which I also love), and fell in love with his artwork all over again.
Fast forward a few years later and, from Dark Horse Books, comes 'Drawing Down The Moon: The Art Of Charles Vess'. This is a superb collection of paintings, pencil sketches, pen and inks from a legend of fantasy art. Over 200 pages of luscious artwork, some with descriptions by Charles himself, and includes some of his work for Swamp Thing, Stardust as well as other works such as for George RR Martin's 'A Storm Of Swords', and 'Spiderman' and 'The Books Of Magic'.
Presented as a large format book, with most of the art taking up the full page, and with a foreword by Susanna Clarke (author of Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell), this book is a joy to read and must for those that love quality art and fantasy art in particular! Totally recommended!
***** out of 5
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