Essentials

Saturday, 26 August 2023

Eric Kincaid Tribute

Its with great sadness to inform you that British illustrator Eric Kincaid passed away on 18/8/23. For those who might know who he was, Eric was known for his fantasy illustrations as well as for interpreting classic stories for younger readers; mainly fairy tales and rhymes. He was a major player for Brimax Books, so there's a chance you might've seen his work as a child in the 70s; or through second-hand book stores. For me, his versions were not only a part of my childhood, but they had a major influence on me. 

Eric was both an extraordinary draftsman and artist. The amount of detail and intricacy that he put into his drawings had such enchantment. He really brought his characters to life, as they would display such fluidity, movement and expressions. His level of vivid intricacy could almost be compared to Arthur Rackham, in how believably distinct he depicted magical and non-magical beings. He would push his ability with each decade; this exploration of linework, tone and transparency of colour would result in beautifully rendered images. 






Although Kincaid may have fallen out of style at the turn of the century, he still kept doing what he loved to do until the end. That doesn't change how much his retellings mesmerised a generation of readers. They contributed to my love of fantasy and pursuit to be an artist. He had a touch, any artist would dream of achieving such charm. We may have lost a legend in the field, but the magic of storytelling is still there. I'm thankful to have seen that magic and we should keep it alive. I believe wherever he is, he's still spreading that magic in other people's lives. 
RIP
Eric Kincaid
1931-2023

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