The Creeping Death from Neptune: A Journey into the Mind of Basil Wolverton

Brain Bats of Venus: The Life and Comics of Basil Wolverton Volume 2: The Life and Comics of Basil Wolverton Vol. 2 (1942-1952) (Creeping Death from Neptune)

by Greg Sadowski

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1866389 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	444 pages

FREE

Step into the shadowy realm of Basil Wolverton, a comic book visionary whose bizarre and captivating creations have haunted the imaginations of readers for decades. In the first volume of "The Life and Comics of Basil Wolverton," we embark on a journey through the early years of his career, from 1942 to 1952, tracing the origins of his unique style and the unforgettable characters that emerged from his pen.

Origins of a Visionary

Basil Wolverton was born in 1909 in Portland, Oregon. From a young age, he displayed an extraordinary talent for drawing and a fascination with the macabre. His early influences included Edgar Allan Poe, H.P. Lovecraft, and the pulp magazines of the era. In the 1930s, Wolverton began submitting his work to various comic book publishers, but it was not until the outbreak of World War II that his unique style found a home.

The Creeping Death and Other Tales of Terror

In 1942, EC Comics, led by the legendary William M. Gaines, published the first issue of "The Creeping Death from Neptune." This horror anthology showcased Wolverton's distinctive blend of science fiction, fantasy, and the supernatural. The title character, a monstrous alien creature with glowing eyes and razor-sharp claws, became an instant icon of the genre.

Wolverton's other stories for EC Comics were equally bizarre and unsettling. "Space-Kid," a young adventurer who traveled to distant planets, encountered strange and terrifying creatures. "The Monster of Mars" pitted a lone astronaut against a giant, insect-like alien. And "The Brain Eaters" depicted a race of parasitic aliens that devoured human brains.

Surrealist Masterpieces

Beyond his horror comics, Wolverton also created surreal and experimental works that pushed the boundaries of the medium. In "The Mad Magazine," he contributed a series of one-page gag cartoons that defied all sense and logic. His characters often had contorted bodies, exaggerated features, and an air of existential dread.

Wolverton's surrealism extended to his illustrations for other publications as well. In the 1940s, he created a series of covers for "Weird Tales," the legendary pulp magazine known for its dark fantasy and horror stories. His haunting images, often featuring distorted figures and otherworldly landscapes, perfectly captured the magazine's macabre aesthetic.

Legacy and Influence

Basil Wolverton's career spanned over four decades, and his work continues to inspire and influence artists to this day. His unique style, blending elements of horror, science fiction, and surrealism, has left an indelible mark on comics, illustration, and popular culture.

Wolverton's characters and concepts have been referenced and parodied in countless works of art and entertainment. His creations have been featured in movies, television shows, and even video games. His influence can be seen in the work of contemporary artists such as Charles Burns, Daniel Clowes, and Junji Ito.

The Life and Comics of Basil Wolverton

The first volume of "The Life and Comics of Basil Wolverton" is an essential guide to the early career of this visionary artist. It features a comprehensive collection of his comics, including the complete run of "The Creeping Death from Neptune" and a selection of his surreal and experimental works.

The book also includes detailed annotations and commentary by comics historians and enthusiasts, providing insights into Wolverton's creative process and the cultural context of his work. It is a must-have for anyone interested in the history of comics, horror, and the art of the macabre.

Basil Wolverton was a true original, a visionary artist whose bizarre and haunting creations continue to fascinate and inspire. The first volume of "The Life and Comics of Basil Wolverton" offers a unique opportunity to explore the early years of his career and discover the origins of his enduring legacy. Join us on this journey into the mind of a master of the macabre and experience the unforgettable world of Basil Wolverton.

Free Download your copy today and immerse yourself in the twisted brilliance of Basil Wolverton!

Brain Bats of Venus: The Life and Comics of Basil Wolverton Volume 2: The Life and Comics of Basil Wolverton Vol. 2 (1942-1952) (Creeping Death from Neptune)

by Greg Sadowski

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1866389 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	444 pages

FREE