Barry Windsor-Smith

Of all the artists who've worked in the field of comics, I'd be hard-pressed to name one as my absolute favorite, but if I had to, then I would choose Barry.  Among comic fans, Barry is probably most well-known for his work on Conan the Barbarian.  During his tenure on the series, Barry underwent a great artistic growth -- if you read his run on the title from start to finish, you'll see his talent developing and maturing right in front of your eyes!  While his earliest work drew heavily on such comic book greats as Jack Kirby and Jim Steranko for inspiration, it was his interest in the Pre-Raphaelite movement of the 19th century that drove him to new artistic heights on Conan and his later work for his own publishing company, Gorblimey Press.  I love his classical figurework and attention to detail.

• Tupenny Conan: Plate 6:  After having finished an acclaimed run on Conan, Barry opened up shop as the Gorblimey Press in order to publish his own work in the form of portfolios and fine art prints without the interference of others into the creative process.  The Tupenny Conan was a portfolio of six plates and an illustrated envelope all showing Conan in various situations.  This particular plate is my second favorite of the set as it's a terrific example of Barry's attention to detail.  From the frenzied soldiers to Conan attacking on horseback to the archers firing down arrows from an elevated ridge, Barry's art gives you the feeling that "you are there".  (Inks: Barry Windsor-Smith)
• New Mutants #46 cover:  This cover is a nice example of Barry's modern work.  It features lithe graceful figurework and fine parallel line shading.  (Inks: Barry Windsor-Smith)
• X-O Manowar #1 p.24:  This page is notable as being from the first appearance of X-O Manowar.  And I happen to think it's the best page in the book as well.  (Inks: Bob Layton)
• Archer & Armstrong #2 p.8:  Here's another page featuring X-O and the characters that Barry was most associated with at Valiant Comics: Archer & Armstrong.  Not only did Barry do a fine job of illustrating the book, but he took over the writing chores and delivered a fun and humorous comic book.  (Inks: Bob Layton)