What I like about DCS's Type V demons is that I don't find them titillating in the slightest -- quite the opposite. They're all the more horrific for having the head and naked torso of a woman. People can say what they will about Sutherland's technique but I think it takes some talent to be able to avoid making a demon like this salacious.
And to think: it used to be trendy to bag on DCSIII art. I OTOH have always loved it: his black ink art has always captured the feeling of traditional dungeon delving in a way few others have (namely, Dave Trampier). I'm not as big a fan of his color work, but pieces like this and some of his work in the modules reminds me again and again how much he was 'the look' of D&D.
Always been a fan as well of DCS- I've never understood some of the internet hate surrounding his work. He may not be the most accomplished technically, especially compared to modern artists, but IMO, what he lacked in pure technicality he made up for in style. His weapons, his non -fantastical armor, his ability to convey a scene without all that much scenery (so to speak. Good stuff.
David Sutherland is one of my favorite artists. Never did understand the so called "technical" drivel that many people go on about when referring to his art. Art is art - there is no one true way. If it speaks to you, great. If not, find something that does.
For me, DCSIII is a "does". I especially like his "Room of Many Pools" illustration in B1. I think that's the name of it anyway.
I wish I had the chance to let him know how much I appreciated his artwork and his efforts for TSR!!
And to think: it used to be trendy to bag on DCSIII art.
DCS is still a popular whipping boy in many places, including some where the people involved ought to know better. I'm not quite sure why that is, but such is life.
DS's Type 5's have turned me on since puberty. Maybe because I have a thing for blondes. Also maybe because I am a sick SOB.
ReplyDeleteWhat I like about DCS's Type V demons is that I don't find them titillating in the slightest -- quite the opposite. They're all the more horrific for having the head and naked torso of a woman. People can say what they will about Sutherland's technique but I think it takes some talent to be able to avoid making a demon like this salacious.
ReplyDeleteNice piece! I like it, I'm not familiar with the artwork from the early OD&D Supplements.
ReplyDeleteAnd to think: it used to be trendy to bag on DCSIII art. I OTOH have always loved it: his black ink art has always captured the feeling of traditional dungeon delving in a way few others have (namely, Dave Trampier). I'm not as big a fan of his color work, but pieces like this and some of his work in the modules reminds me again and again how much he was 'the look' of D&D.
ReplyDeleteBetween this, the Harpies, and David getting a fair amount of Nudity this weekend.
ReplyDeleteWow... that fighter and wizzie must be hella high level!
ReplyDeleteAlways been a fan as well of DCS- I've never understood some of the internet hate surrounding his work. He may not be the most accomplished technically, especially compared to modern artists, but IMO, what he lacked in pure technicality he made up for in style. His weapons, his non -fantastical armor, his ability to convey a scene without all that much scenery (so to speak. Good stuff.
ReplyDeleteI love the utterly black background. I also love the Empire of the Petal Throne style swords that the type V demon has.
ReplyDeleteDCS is iconic D&D art to me. He was my favorite as a teen. His Type V still does it for me. Don't tell my wife.
ReplyDeleteHowever, as an adult my taste in art has changed. I must say that my favorite is now Tramp.
David Sutherland is one of my favorite artists. Never did understand the so called "technical" drivel that many people go on about when referring to his art. Art is art - there is no one true way. If it speaks to you, great. If not, find something that does.
ReplyDeleteFor me, DCSIII is a "does". I especially like his "Room of Many Pools" illustration in B1. I think that's the name of it anyway.
I wish I had the chance to let him know how much I appreciated his artwork and his efforts for TSR!!
And to think: it used to be trendy to bag on DCSIII art.
ReplyDeleteDCS is still a popular whipping boy in many places, including some where the people involved ought to know better. I'm not quite sure why that is, but such is life.