Ross feels like a hybrid - modern talent mixed in with the golden age of comics style. If that makes any sense - got yourself a new sub. His work can be framed and put up on a wall unlike many artists today. Keep up the great work.
Thanks for the comment! Well, I think art can belong both in comics and in museums. I'm pretty sure there have been quite a lot of comic art exhibits over the years featuring art by comic creators.
@@LastBastian DC is not the one that created Captain marvel they just sued his creators to their knees then acquired them. Those creators were fawcett comics. And that's why he lives in fawcett city
When I bought Kingdom Come I was so amazed by the new take on non-hyper-muscular versions of the heroes I grew up with. Seeing them that way made the focus on their personalities easier and it made the fantastic seem more possible. As if I was forced to see them as people that I might meet one day. It sort of stripped them of being so "other" and made them more relatable.
they are still hyper muscular but their bodies are drawn like the golden age of comics and silver era physique bodybuilding where it isn't too huge and to shredded unlike modern comics and movies.
That's one of my main pet.peeves with most mainstream comic. Heroes like Charles Xavier, Reed Richards, Dr. Strange, etc shouldn't have the same body types as Black Panther, Captain America, Spiderman, and so on. It takes away more of the diversity between Characters.
Though the style has its detractors, it's not really an issue with the style itself. I think the real reason we don't see more of Ross's work inside comics is that each drawing takes a lot of time. There is no way one can do all the drawings required to make a comic book and stick to the schedule that comics require if they put that much effort into the drawings. This is why we generally see a lot of covers and non cannon graphic novels featuring Alex Ross's work. If the style lent itself to supporting the pace of a regular series, I have no doubt we would see more of his work.
The style itself works if the storyline is about golden age comics or very humanitarian stories. A big world ending event doesn't really suit it unless it focuses on narrative and character studies than flashy fighting.
Detractors are not his enemy, time is. Ross is great, but do check out the work of (for example) Juan Giménez (Metabarons), Don Lawrence (Storm/Trigie) or Olivier Ledroit (Requiem, Vampire Knight). Can’t compare one artist to another, but there are those who walk in similar paths when it comes to the absolute dedication to style, craft and story.
Whether or not it belongs, his World’s Greatest Super-Heroes is what got me into comics in the first place, for which I will always be extremely grateful.
As an Alex Ross fan, I actually agree tremendously with your opinions. He inspired me to ditch the idea of moulding every piece of fabric correctly to the musculature of the characters’ bodies. This gives a sense of realism to my work (though I have a far less realistic style overall compared to Ross).
he made alot of the characters look very believable despite the campy outfits. The style itself works if the storyline is about golden age comics or very humanitarian stories. A big world ending event doesn't really suit it unless it focuses on narrative and character studies than flashy fighting.
When i was at the height of my comic book obsession, around 95/98/2000, comic book movies had'nt really taken off. There was no MCU. Alex Ross art was the closest thing to seeing super heroes in an ultra realistic light.
he made alot of the characters look very believable despite the campy outfits. The style itself works if the storyline is about golden age comics or very humanitarian stories. A big world ending event doesn't really suit it unless it focuses on narrative and character studies than flashy fighting.
Alex Ross does Justice to superheroes that most other media but especially live action and movies cannot or better yet refuse to. He does this blend with most Heroes that accurately captures a realistic look to their costumes while still honoring in a faithful manner The Source material with its design
he made alot of the characters look very believable despite the campy outfits. The style itself works if the storyline is about golden age comics or very humanitarian stories. A big world ending event doesn't really suit it unless it focuses on narrative and character studies than flashy fighting.
It's about time someone said something like this, it perfectly tells the best of Ross's art style. As well as how House styles won't always suit certain comics; I can't imagine seeing Kingdom Come if it looked more like a Curt Swan comic.
AHHH thank you very much for your compliment! Was wondering if people would be interested or accepting of my take. Turns out a lot of people enjoyed the video today. Anyway, thanks for your continued support as always!
I don't think anyone's mentioned this but his skill at surfaces and textures is absolutely incredible, the way he manages to make each costume seem so real because of the different materials, surfaces, textures and more, it really makes everything that much more real, as well as diversity amongst costumes instead of everyone wearing a similar looking material.
Alex Ross uses Gouache...., very hard to work with...., He is up there with Frank Frazetta and Boris Vallejeo and Julie Bell....., Also his style has shades of Burne Hogarth....., Those artists were My Starting point Along with Kirby and the Marvel Artists of that age the...., 70's....., Alex Ross did Beautiful work in Marvels and Kingdom Come..,
Yeah, definitely astonished by his technical skill when it comes to painting. You know, if I'm gonna be honest, I've yet to become familiar with a lot of the classic American and European painters of the past. I really have to dive in to some of their work someday.
Yes, his artwork absolutely does belong in comic books, whether or not it appeals to any specific individual. No one denies his artwork is generally great. Plus the more variety of comic book artwork styles the better. The worst thing you can do is push everyone towards one style.
@@spectacularlysentimental Yea, I typed up that comment towards the start of the video. It's the same conclusion. But I didn't want to waste that effort, so I posted my comment anyway 😅
They have videos that state when Alex Ross does a cover the comic sells more than it would with other recognized artists. I don't think he is the only one that has that effect, but he is in a small group of artists whose names/works on cover and internally defenently sells more... He knows were his art works and doesn't do just any job. Like any world class actor/actress, it isn't just the talent they possess but the projects they undertake, and often they are only presented with works they will be less likely to turn down.
Thanks for the comment! You're definitely right on that one. Especially as he's gotten more popular (and also older), he doesn't do just any job anymore, since he's in a safe financial position. Honestly, good for him! And I'm glad he still makes some passion projects once in a while. I'm glad that super recognized artists in the industry don't have to depend on comics for their livelihoods that much, and they are free to pick and choose the creative projects they take on. Kinda wish more of them worked on more stuff though. Hahaha! But they definitely do deserve a break.
It belongs in comics because he loves and understands the medium. It also belongs in museums because it's strong enough to be loved by those outside of sphere of comics fandom.
he made alot of the characters look very believable despite the campy outfits. The style itself works if the storyline is about golden age comics or very humanitarian stories. A big world ending event doesn't really suit it unless it focuses on narrative and character studies than flashy fighting.
Alex Ross got me into comics! The first comic book i bought was Project Superpowers and his art of the Golden Age super heroes made me fall in love with the public domain heroes.
Well laid out discussion. I can see citing Marvels and Kingdom Come, as they are Alex Ross' mostly highly-regarded works by most. However, I would add that Justice might be a better example of pairing art-to-story as it was very reminiscent of the classic Super Friends cartoon. Despite being labeled animation, the great Alex Toth was limited by the technology of the age and the result might appear (to use your terminology) static. Ross' style and obvious familiarity and respect for the era really added to the nostalgia of the miniseries. But, I appreciate you taking the time to make and post the video. Until hearing your case, I had dismissed those who didn't like Ross' interior work as snobs who didn't feel comics were worth the highest quality art, or that art could overshadow story. You are absolutely right- they are two elements that have to blend for the best resulting whole.
I just read a couple of Spider Man issues illustrated by Clayton Crain, and I was blown away that such realism was _possible_ in a comic. Like, I'd only ever seen art like that on covers, before (and obviously on things that weren't comics at all). I had no idea someone could actually produce 24 pages of art like that in good time to meet the demands of the comic book publishing world, is what I mean. There's a reason we don't see entire series by Alex Ross or Clayton Crain, I doubt they could maintain that kind of grueling pace to get a monthly issue out every month, but I'm fascinated all the same when I see it. When I was reading those issues, I felt like the lettering practically offended the art. It was jarring to have this beautifully painted page of panels, and just slapped on top, the same normal caption boxes and speech balloons that look totally at home on any other art. I wish they'd dome something to damp the vivid yellow of the caption boxes and the stark white of the speech balloons. Maybe added some texture, to ground the balloons and boxes in the art better? It wouldn't be the craziest idea. I've seen things like artists making the balloons cast a shadow when there's a bright flash that crosses the panel gutters, before, to really enhance the illusion that the blast is coming out of the page. Making the balloons and boxes feel more a part of the art is definitely something that can be done.
Thank you very much! It's taken a lot of work to come from the place I started, so I'm glad you appreciate it. Still, I'm sure there's ways for me to improve, since I pale in comparison to a lot of the great comic book youtubers out there who are extremely gifted and talented.
@@spectacularlysentimental we all start somewhere, and if you’re already writing and narrating so eloquently, you’ll reach your goals in no time! there’s more to come!
Thank you so much for the support, Enrique! Hope you enjoy the channel, and stay tuned for my upcoming video, which became WAY BIGGER than I ever imagined it could be. It's kind of a definitive video covering modern Black Widow, if you're into that stuff. But if you're not, no problem. There's quite a lot of stuff on this channel for you to enjoy.
The first time I came across Alex Ross art was in Dynamite's Project Superpowers.That was the day I became a fan of him.But I agree with your points and his artstyle is not for everyone.But it's really awesome to watch.I just wish that he would do more public domain superheroes.Cuz his style suits those characters.
Alex Ross's work has been the museums and countless art shows. His medium is comics & media; as he will also illustrate tv icons, movies and even anime ( G-force)! Let's not forget he also has Illustrated Comics as well karma from his legendary Kingdom Come series to even doing solo books on superman, wonder woman, and batman. Even if his art isn't as stylistically dynamic as the aforementioned illustrators mentioned in this video, his art captures a finesse of how these beings would be in real life. I am forever glad for his work because he brings a greater sense of life to each masterpiece that has painted.
add movement lines of daniel johnson and alex ross's comics are perfect to be honest and truly honest if a buff guy flew down from the sky wearing 60's superman costume we wouldn't laugh at him
invalid criticism regarding movement since there is felt motion in his other work such as Amazing Spiderman #18. Moreover comparing panels to covers is definitely unfair.
He is brilliant. He understands the characters that he is drawing/painting, and his talent is perfect for what he is trying to say. Batman was meant to be dark, the Joker maniacal, Superman almost a God.... and Ross shows them as they should be. Painting everything in Gouache gives his art a completely different look than the stuff we have seen for the last 70 years and it stands apart from comic book art.
You´re talking about comicbooks in general, as if american superhero comics were the only thing there is. This type of realistic and painting-like art is common in European comics (since ages ago btw, even if European comics have existed for longer than american comics, if you didn´t know). But personally, I agree with you: Alex Ross style can work great in superhero stories... With the right project. And he can draw good action, just not right for an action-filled plot, with like 16 different action scenes. Superman: Peace on Earth is on of my favorite one of his.
You know, you're definitely right on that. Thanks for pointing it out. Even though I have read a good chunk of comics (including some foreign ones that have painting-like styles), my perception of comics in the video is mostly within the scope of the standard American superhero comic, which although popular, doesn't even begin to encapsulate the whole spectrum of comics out there.
Anything belongs anywhere that it finds an audience who support it. I LOVE reading his painted comics, and will go for painted comics (realism like Kingdom Come or abstract like Batman: Night Cries) every time over standard inked books. They just look amazing and that's half the appeal to me.
I think your criticism come more from the medium used to create the art than any technical aspect of the pieces. Ross’ watercolors don’t offer the same sort of motion indications you can get from the pencils, ink, & coloring method used by most of the industry. What sets him apart the most is also what puts you off from his style.
Hey Daniel. Thanks for the comment and checking out the video, as it's much appreciated! You're right to indicate that Alex Ross' watercolors don't offer the same sort of motion as the standard comic style does, but I didn't say it was a bad thing at all. I actually conclude the video by saying something that ties into your comment. I conclude by saying that what makes Alex Ross' art different makes it special. There is no such thing as a perfect ideal style, as different stories will require different styles. I say in the video that his style has been perfect for the books he worked on! The title, thumbnail, and initial part of the video might make it seem like it was a negative video; but I actually really like Alex Ross' Art and think it belongs. Anyway, sorry if I bothered you with such a long comment. Hahaha! Have a good day!
Yes it does. Except for Alex' strange artistic preferences like making Batman's cowl blackest darkest black while Robin's brightest green , even though they are supposed to be same color, alos for some reason he didn't make trunks for Batman or Superman satine. Other than that it is all great. And your comparison doesn't hold any weight as an arguement because Johnson made his comics After DC allowed to show batpenis, not in 90s when blood was still mostly avoided, let alone decapitations, even Vertigo didn't regularly go into hardcore gore as much as creators nowdays can do even in cartoons. DCAU creators could never get away with anything that Justice League Dark War shown. Unless it was robot or Clayface or something like that ie without any blood.
Ironically i kinda agreed with most of the criticisms of his work UNTIL the static part, Ross’s art is a lot of things but “still” isn’t one of them… maybe the argument can be made they seem like photographs of a moment, instead of having speed lines to indicate motion, but his art is VERY dynamic imo just in a more 50’s - 60’s sense not pushing it to extreme manga/anime levels of modern day
Thanks for checking out the video and leaving a respectful comment despite our stark disagreement on the subject. I think it's a wonderful thing to discuss civilly despite differences. I kind of get where you're coming from with mentioning his art being dynamic in a 50's - 60's sense, since his art is an ode to that time period. But personally, I think being able to change background elements (like Kirby does with speed lines and his famous dots) and contorting characters' faces and body structure is pretty crucial to giving dynamism to art, which is defined by google as "characterized by constant change, activity, or progress." Because Alex Ross' adheres to realism to a tee (except for his recent Fantastic Four: Full Circle), it personally looks like still photographs to me. But don't get me wrong! It doesn't mean he doesn't belong in comics. Dynamism and movement isn't crucial to every comic. I argue later in the video that his art is great precisely because of its stillness and realism when paired with stories that need that kind of photographic realism. Anyway, I'm sorry for this dump of a comment. Hahaha! I really wanted to respond to this. But idk, what do you think? Anyway, have a good day!
@@spectacularlysentimental i definitely see your points, and agree even just adding SOMETHING to enhance the backrounds can increase the feeling of movement and i also love seeing different opinions so no hate i just love his art
YES HIS WORK BELONGS IN BOTH WORLDS HANDS DOWN!! THE SAME DEBATE WENT ON WITH STERANKO'S EYEBENDING WORK IN THE LATE 60S & BARRY SMITHS WORK ON CONAN IN THE EARLY 70S ❤❤ ❤ ALL 3. BY THE WAY
I doubt I'll ever do a video fully on him, but maybe I'd mention him in a future video where I note one of his books. If I'm gonna be honest though, a good chunk of his work is way too edgy for my preferred taste most of the time. Hahahaha! He's definitely another talented creator though for sure.
Bottomline - no his art does not belong in comics. At least not in monthly comics. Not because if his realism or his artistic talent - nobody denies that he's wildly talented and his art is incredibly well done. The reason I say that is simple mechanics - there is no way to do Alex Ross slart as the main artist of a monthly comic book because he can't produce it fast enough. Maybe if it was a comic that came out once a year he could do it... but he is human and can produce fast enough to do the interiors of a monthly in that style.
La sua arte è milioni di volte più godibile, espressiva , realistica , creativa , contenutistica e rispettosa dei personaggi, della cultura dei comic book e innovativa di qualsiasi film prodotto dal fallimentare lavoro di Hollywood sui super-heroes o sci-fi ! Rispettare e studiare questo artista e i suoi lavori è un dovere e un piacere
Idk man when I read kingdom come I didn’t think Alex Ross art sucked at all. I was 15 when kingdom come came out he was loved at the time and no one hated him. I think this is just age difference
I liked his comic art in the last Fantastic Four that he drew, because he has an accurate anatomy, but he works with colors in a more surrealist way, which made him looser, more plastic, more appropriate for the comic book media. I think his realistic art is very beautiful, but very rigid for a media It was by simply changing colors that he got the art right, he stylized the realism just enough to make it work, other than that for me it only works only on covers.
I don’t read his comics because of the bubble. His work is AWFUL with white dialogue bubbles. His work should be rereleased with a different writing format.
I really like Alex Ross but mainly his cover artwork. When "Marvels" or "Kingdom Come" was released, his style was fresh and new. But by now there are a lot of artists with a similar style e.g. dell Otto. I really like a beautiful cover what do not prefer this artstyle for the interior artwork. Just like Adam Hughes. I just love his cover but when he pencils a whole story then it is not my favorite artwork.
Yes..... I agree...... His recent Fantastic Four was actually very good, but there he was more playful and less realistic..................................... ciao
Yooo! Finally someone mentioned Full Circle! I had recorded a section about it in the video, but it broke the flow so I didn't end up putting it. I think that book shows that he is more versatile than most people think. He definitely experimented with that book, and it really did feel inspired by the early Lee and Kirby comics.
Alex Ross is static, like you said, and if it wasn't for his more iconic stories, he wouldn't have made it as more than a cover artist (which can be more lucrative, if less creative). So it's hard to pick him out as a favorite comics painter, when there are so many around the world who can tell a more proper story with similar techniques (Don Lawrence from the UK, on his series Storm, and Juan Giménez from Argentina, on Metabarons, are examples). But he can tell a story if he wants to, such as on his Uncle Sam mini-series for Vertigo, where it progresses as a series of snapshots of theatrical poses.
lol. its funny you say that... of course it belongs in comic books. his art is so iconic that marvels movies in the MCU try to emulate it with their color grading in those films.
I think you need to understand the difference between a photorealistic artist who uses paint to capture an action moment vs a cartoonist who uses pens to exaggerate action to convey movement. Daniel Martin Johnson is not the best example to juxtapose that against Alex Ross. He's a cartoonist, not an artist. There is a difference. But you bring up an interesting question of whether it belongs in comics. It's tough to say since the artform is a cartoonist medium, not an artists one. Ross' stuff belongs in The Louvre. But comics should bless their lucky stars they have Alex Ross. How lucky for comics that a fan just happens to be an artist. He's very special to comics and it wouldn't be the same without him.
The comic not movie thing is really all american comics when you compare it to manga ive read shojo romance manga that had more energy than american stuff alex ross is just even further below that but i let him get away with it because of how great his art is
The only comic artist that can actually draw unlike the rest of the 90 or so percent of comic artists that get there drawing skills just by copying and tracing poorly drawn comic art 😂😂😂😂
Fantastic video! Ross is an undeniably great artist but I think it’s fair to say he’s not a great sequential artist, or even a great storyteller. His role in Marvels, Kingdom Come, etc. is really more as an illustrator than a traditional comics artist. Sequential art is all about motion, dynamics, energy. I love Ross’ cover work but put his interiors up against someone like Kirby and there’s no contest in terms of storytelling.
Alex Ross is a brilliant artist. Comic books are a sequential cartooning art. Whether Alex Ross is a cartoonist might be debatable. Sequential cartooning is an art form and craft unto itself that depicts consistency of scene panel to panel, illusion of motion on the page, and quickly-conveyed storytelling with a minimum of panels to convey an idea. Ross' art is wonderful. I love Kingdom Come and Marvels and all, but the realism of the drawings comes off as novelty to me at times and his figures appear to exist on the panel to be admired and looked at, and not exist in the scene. It might be cartooning to some. The debate continues.
Love the artwork from Kingdom Come, but at the same time I don't. It amazes my mind that it can look so realistic, but, that's not why I read fiction. I wan't expressive, overly exaggerated artstyles to fitting of those type of stories. It's weird, I admire it, but I don't want it, like it's not my order or it's in the wrong place. I don't know, maybe that's just my personal tastes talking here. Comic books have been chasing realism for decades so it's longevity is a testament to it's value.
Ross feels like a hybrid - modern talent mixed in with the golden age of comics style. If that makes any sense - got yourself a new sub. His work can be framed and put up on a wall unlike many artists today. Keep up the great work.
Thank you so much!
There are more artists of high caliber nowadays, some who have more fluidity than old Ross.
@@giulyanoviniciussanssilva2947like who? Would love to check them out.
he made alot of the characters look very believable despite the campy outfits.
Who? @@giulyanoviniciussanssilva2947
It doesn't belong in a comic book. It belongs in a museum. Also, he's the only person that really draws a believable version of Captain marvel.
Thanks for the comment! Well, I think art can belong both in comics and in museums. I'm pretty sure there have been quite a lot of comic art exhibits over the years featuring art by comic creators.
Which Captain Marvel?
@@LastBastian fawcett comics
@@ryanfitzgerald9833 I meant DC or Marvel? Man CM or woman CM?
@@LastBastian DC is not the one that created Captain marvel they just sued his creators to their knees then acquired them. Those creators were fawcett comics. And that's why he lives in fawcett city
When I bought Kingdom Come I was so amazed by the new take on non-hyper-muscular versions of the heroes I grew up with. Seeing them that way made the focus on their personalities easier and it made the fantastic seem more possible. As if I was forced to see them as people that I might meet one day. It sort of stripped them of being so "other" and made them more relatable.
they are still hyper muscular but their bodies are drawn like the golden age of comics and silver era physique bodybuilding where it isn't too huge and to shredded unlike modern comics and movies.
he made alot of the characters look very believable despite the campy outfits.
That's one of my main pet.peeves with most mainstream comic. Heroes like Charles Xavier, Reed Richards, Dr. Strange, etc shouldn't have the same body types as Black Panther, Captain America, Spiderman, and so on. It takes away more of the diversity between Characters.
The first time I saw an Alex Ross artwork I thought it was a photograph
Same. Especially his Superman and Batman
Bro!
Though the style has its detractors, it's not really an issue with the style itself. I think the real reason we don't see more of Ross's work inside comics is that each drawing takes a lot of time. There is no way one can do all the drawings required to make a comic book and stick to the schedule that comics require if they put that much effort into the drawings. This is why we generally see a lot of covers and non cannon graphic novels featuring Alex Ross's work. If the style lent itself to supporting the pace of a regular series, I have no doubt we would see more of his work.
Yeah, you definitely have a point. It's just not feasible for someone to draw art that detailed and realistic for monthly comics. It'd be insane!
So true and it also makes his art so much special.
The style itself works if the storyline is about golden age comics or very humanitarian stories. A big world ending event doesn't really suit it unless it focuses on narrative and character studies than flashy fighting.
Yeah on his UA-cam channel he talks about how it takes him double the time than other artist.
Detractors are not his enemy, time is. Ross is great, but do check out the work of (for example) Juan Giménez (Metabarons), Don Lawrence (Storm/Trigie) or Olivier Ledroit (Requiem, Vampire Knight). Can’t compare one artist to another, but there are those who walk in similar paths when it comes to the absolute dedication to style, craft and story.
Whether or not it belongs, his World’s Greatest Super-Heroes is what got me into comics in the first place, for which I will always be extremely grateful.
Awww... that's really sweet to hear. I think we are all grateful for our first comics.
As an Alex Ross fan, I actually agree tremendously with your opinions. He inspired me to ditch the idea of moulding every piece of fabric correctly to the musculature of the characters’ bodies. This gives a sense of realism to my work (though I have a far less realistic style overall compared to Ross).
he made alot of the characters look very believable despite the campy outfits. The style itself works if the storyline is about golden age comics or very humanitarian stories. A big world ending event doesn't really suit it unless it focuses on narrative and character studies than flashy fighting.
When i was at the height of my comic book obsession, around 95/98/2000, comic book movies had'nt really taken off. There was no MCU. Alex Ross art was the closest thing to seeing super heroes in an ultra realistic light.
he made alot of the characters look very believable despite the campy outfits. The style itself works if the storyline is about golden age comics or very humanitarian stories. A big world ending event doesn't really suit it unless it focuses on narrative and character studies than flashy fighting.
Alex Ross does Justice to superheroes that most other media but especially live action and movies cannot or better yet refuse to. He does this blend with most Heroes that accurately captures a realistic look to their costumes while still honoring in a faithful manner The Source material with its design
its how i want the heroes to look like in movies
he made alot of the characters look very believable despite the campy outfits. The style itself works if the storyline is about golden age comics or very humanitarian stories. A big world ending event doesn't really suit it unless it focuses on narrative and character studies than flashy fighting.
It's about time someone said something like this, it perfectly tells the best of Ross's art style. As well as how House styles won't always suit certain comics; I can't imagine seeing Kingdom Come if it looked more like a Curt Swan comic.
AHHH thank you very much for your compliment! Was wondering if people would be interested or accepting of my take. Turns out a lot of people enjoyed the video today. Anyway, thanks for your continued support as always!
I don't think anyone's mentioned this but his skill at surfaces and textures is absolutely incredible, the way he manages to make each costume seem so real because of the different materials, surfaces, textures and more, it really makes everything that much more real, as well as diversity amongst costumes instead of everyone wearing a similar looking material.
Alex Ross uses Gouache...., very hard to work with....,
He is up there with Frank Frazetta and Boris Vallejeo and Julie Bell.....,
Also his style has shades of Burne Hogarth.....,
Those artists were My Starting point Along with Kirby and the Marvel Artists of that age the...., 70's.....,
Alex Ross did Beautiful work in Marvels and Kingdom Come..,
Yeah, definitely astonished by his technical skill when it comes to painting. You know, if I'm gonna be honest, I've yet to become familiar with a lot of the classic American and European painters of the past. I really have to dive in to some of their work someday.
Yes, his artwork absolutely does belong in comic books, whether or not it appeals to any specific individual. No one denies his artwork is generally great. Plus the more variety of comic book artwork styles the better. The worst thing you can do is push everyone towards one style.
Exactly! That was my conclusion at the end of the video.
@@spectacularlysentimental Yea, I typed up that comment towards the start of the video. It's the same conclusion. But I didn't want to waste that effort, so I posted my comment anyway 😅
@@SonGoku-tp8gb Well, it seems like we have the same kind of takes when it comes to this stuff. That's nice. Hahaha!
@@spectacularlysentimental yea for sure!
I love listening to you while I work on my own comics! You insight is great, and the calming music lets me focus on your words too. Great video!
Thank you so much! It means a lot, Jonah. And good luck with your comic in-progress!
They have videos that state when Alex Ross does a cover the comic sells more than it would with other recognized artists. I don't think he is the only one that has that effect, but he is in a small group of artists whose names/works on cover and internally defenently sells more... He knows were his art works and doesn't do just any job. Like any world class actor/actress, it isn't just the talent they possess but the projects they undertake, and often they are only presented with works they will be less likely to turn down.
Thanks for the comment! You're definitely right on that one. Especially as he's gotten more popular (and also older), he doesn't do just any job anymore, since he's in a safe financial position. Honestly, good for him! And I'm glad he still makes some passion projects once in a while.
I'm glad that super recognized artists in the industry don't have to depend on comics for their livelihoods that much, and they are free to pick and choose the creative projects they take on. Kinda wish more of them worked on more stuff though. Hahaha! But they definitely do deserve a break.
his work belong to be in a museum right next to the great painters of renaissance.
Definitely.
It belongs in comics because he loves and understands the medium. It also belongs in museums because it's strong enough to be loved by those outside of sphere of comics fandom.
he made alot of the characters look very believable despite the campy outfits. The style itself works if the storyline is about golden age comics or very humanitarian stories. A big world ending event doesn't really suit it unless it focuses on narrative and character studies than flashy fighting.
His work belongs anywhere and everywhere.
hes cool, they dont overdo his stuff so seeing it every so often is nice
Alex Ross got me into comics! The first comic book i bought was Project Superpowers and his art of the Golden Age super heroes made me fall in love with the public domain heroes.
Yes it belongs in comic books. It elevates the entire medium.
One of my favorite up and coming comic channels
I'm glad this channel's finally picking up some steam, and I I'm thankful that you're a part of it!
He also designed the best spider-man costume.
Well laid out discussion. I can see citing Marvels and Kingdom Come, as they are Alex Ross' mostly highly-regarded works by most. However, I would add that Justice might be a better example of pairing art-to-story as it was very reminiscent of the classic Super Friends cartoon. Despite being labeled animation, the great Alex Toth was limited by the technology of the age and the result might appear (to use your terminology) static. Ross' style and obvious familiarity and respect for the era really added to the nostalgia of the miniseries.
But, I appreciate you taking the time to make and post the video. Until hearing your case, I had dismissed those who didn't like Ross' interior work as snobs who didn't feel comics were worth the highest quality art, or that art could overshadow story. You are absolutely right- they are two elements that have to blend for the best resulting whole.
Glad you enjoyed the thesis of the video. I really appreciate it, man.
I just read a couple of Spider Man issues illustrated by Clayton Crain, and I was blown away that such realism was _possible_ in a comic. Like, I'd only ever seen art like that on covers, before (and obviously on things that weren't comics at all). I had no idea someone could actually produce 24 pages of art like that in good time to meet the demands of the comic book publishing world, is what I mean. There's a reason we don't see entire series by Alex Ross or Clayton Crain, I doubt they could maintain that kind of grueling pace to get a monthly issue out every month, but I'm fascinated all the same when I see it.
When I was reading those issues, I felt like the lettering practically offended the art. It was jarring to have this beautifully painted page of panels, and just slapped on top, the same normal caption boxes and speech balloons that look totally at home on any other art. I wish they'd dome something to damp the vivid yellow of the caption boxes and the stark white of the speech balloons. Maybe added some texture, to ground the balloons and boxes in the art better? It wouldn't be the craziest idea. I've seen things like artists making the balloons cast a shadow when there's a bright flash that crosses the panel gutters, before, to really enhance the illusion that the blast is coming out of the page. Making the balloons and boxes feel more a part of the art is definitely something that can be done.
you have a very enthusiastic voice, and your essay portrays the emotion you feel for the subject beautifully. keep it up man!
Thank you very much! It's taken a lot of work to come from the place I started, so I'm glad you appreciate it. Still, I'm sure there's ways for me to improve, since I pale in comparison to a lot of the great comic book youtubers out there who are extremely gifted and talented.
@@spectacularlysentimental we all start somewhere, and if you’re already writing and narrating so eloquently, you’ll reach your goals in no time! there’s more to come!
@@vedutk8156 Thank you! I hope you're right. Hahaha!
I rage clicked because of the video title… The very idea! To question! This better be good.
So, Mr. Chris, may I ask if you thought it was good or not? Thanks for checking it out either way.
Alex Ross’ art reminds me of Jim Lee’s art. Their characters aren’t showing much movement but they look so good.
AWESOME videos man, I'll be watching your content exclusively for the next week lol.
Thank you so much for the support, Enrique! Hope you enjoy the channel, and stay tuned for my upcoming video, which became WAY BIGGER than I ever imagined it could be. It's kind of a definitive video covering modern Black Widow, if you're into that stuff. But if you're not, no problem. There's quite a lot of stuff on this channel for you to enjoy.
The first time I came across Alex Ross art was in Dynamite's Project Superpowers.That was the day I became a fan of him.But I agree with your points and his artstyle is not for everyone.But it's really awesome to watch.I just wish that he would do more public domain superheroes.Cuz his style suits those characters.
It would definitely be cool to see him do some public domain characters.
2:05 he made Robin look like a badass here. that's hard to do
Alex Ross's work has been the museums and countless art shows. His medium is comics & media; as he will also illustrate tv icons, movies and even anime ( G-force)! Let's not forget he also has Illustrated Comics as well karma from his legendary Kingdom Come series to even doing solo books on superman, wonder woman, and batman. Even if his art isn't as stylistically dynamic as the aforementioned illustrators mentioned in this video, his art captures a finesse of how these beings would be in real life. I am forever glad for his work because he brings a greater sense of life to each masterpiece that has painted.
Kingdom Come is one of the best graphic novels ever.
it really needs an adaptation
add movement lines of daniel johnson and alex ross's comics are perfect
to be honest and truly honest
if a buff guy flew down from the sky wearing 60's superman costume we wouldn't laugh at him
invalid criticism regarding movement since there is felt motion in his other work such as Amazing Spiderman #18. Moreover comparing panels to covers is definitely unfair.
It's a nonsense criticism.
He is brilliant.
He understands the characters that he is drawing/painting, and his talent is perfect for what he is trying to say.
Batman was meant to be dark, the Joker maniacal, Superman almost a God.... and Ross shows them as they should be.
Painting everything in Gouache gives his art a completely different look than the stuff we have seen for the last 70 years and it stands apart from comic book art.
Loce the passion bro! Keep doing these.
It fits as much as Panty and Stocking fits anime, just depends on how you prefer your comics look
Most people know Alex Ross from Marvels and Kingdom Come, which are seminal works.
Hes a GOAT PERIOD
Epic Intro. Thank you for this Video!
Thank you so much for checking it out. It means a lot!
where does that bunch of panels from 4:39 come from?
BLACK WIDOW #12 (2022)
Kelly Thompson, Elena Casagrande, Adam Hughes
Alex ross' rendition of the classic spider-man suit is Beautiful
Still blows my mind that Alex Ross still doesn't have his work put in museum's
You have such a fun and passionate energy
Thank you very much!
Yes it belongs!!!!!
Comic books are also just story boards for movies!!!
Let’s get it!!!
You´re talking about comicbooks in general, as if american superhero comics were the only thing there is. This type of realistic and painting-like art is common in European comics (since ages ago btw, even if European comics have existed for longer than american comics, if you didn´t know). But personally, I agree with you: Alex Ross style can work great in superhero stories... With the right project. And he can draw good action, just not right for an action-filled plot, with like 16 different action scenes. Superman: Peace on Earth is on of my favorite one of his.
You know, you're definitely right on that. Thanks for pointing it out. Even though I have read a good chunk of comics (including some foreign ones that have painting-like styles), my perception of comics in the video is mostly within the scope of the standard American superhero comic, which although popular, doesn't even begin to encapsulate the whole spectrum of comics out there.
Anything belongs anywhere that it finds an audience who support it. I LOVE reading his painted comics, and will go for painted comics (realism like Kingdom Come or abstract like Batman: Night Cries) every time over standard inked books. They just look amazing and that's half the appeal to me.
To ask if Alex Ross's art belongs in comic books is like asking whether or not the Mona Lisa belongs in the Louvre
I think your criticism come more from the medium used to create the art than any technical aspect of the pieces. Ross’ watercolors don’t offer the same sort of motion indications you can get from the pencils, ink, & coloring method used by most of the industry. What sets him apart the most is also what puts you off from his style.
Hey Daniel. Thanks for the comment and checking out the video, as it's much appreciated!
You're right to indicate that Alex Ross' watercolors don't offer the same sort of motion as the standard comic style does, but I didn't say it was a bad thing at all. I actually conclude the video by saying something that ties into your comment. I conclude by saying that what makes Alex Ross' art different makes it special. There is no such thing as a perfect ideal style, as different stories will require different styles. I say in the video that his style has been perfect for the books he worked on!
The title, thumbnail, and initial part of the video might make it seem like it was a negative video; but I actually really like Alex Ross' Art and think it belongs. Anyway, sorry if I bothered you with such a long comment. Hahaha! Have a good day!
Great analysis! Impressive.
Yes it does.
Except for Alex' strange artistic preferences like making Batman's cowl blackest darkest black while Robin's brightest green , even though they are supposed to be same color, alos for some reason he didn't make trunks for Batman or Superman satine.
Other than that it is all great.
And your comparison doesn't hold any weight as an arguement because Johnson made his comics After DC allowed to show batpenis, not in 90s when blood was still mostly avoided, let alone decapitations, even Vertigo didn't regularly go into hardcore gore as much as creators nowdays can do even in cartoons. DCAU creators could never get away with anything that Justice League Dark War shown. Unless it was robot or Clayface or something like that ie without any blood.
yes it works perfectly
Yes it does belong. And it's gorgeous.
You should do one for Ryan Ottley’s art
Alex Ross`s art elevates comic. As simple as that.
He a god of art and he is a perfect person for the story’s that makes heroes heroes
Absolutely, Alex Ross' art is brilliant.
Have you considered text to speech voiceover?
Ironically i kinda agreed with most of the criticisms of his work UNTIL the static part, Ross’s art is a lot of things but “still” isn’t one of them… maybe the argument can be made they seem like photographs of a moment, instead of having speed lines to indicate motion, but his art is VERY dynamic imo just in a more 50’s - 60’s sense not pushing it to extreme manga/anime levels of modern day
Thanks for checking out the video and leaving a respectful comment despite our stark disagreement on the subject. I think it's a wonderful thing to discuss civilly despite differences.
I kind of get where you're coming from with mentioning his art being dynamic in a 50's - 60's sense, since his art is an ode to that time period. But personally, I think being able to change background elements (like Kirby does with speed lines and his famous dots) and contorting characters' faces and body structure is pretty crucial to giving dynamism to art, which is defined by google as "characterized by constant change, activity, or progress." Because Alex Ross' adheres to realism to a tee (except for his recent Fantastic Four: Full Circle), it personally looks like still photographs to me.
But don't get me wrong! It doesn't mean he doesn't belong in comics. Dynamism and movement isn't crucial to every comic. I argue later in the video that his art is great precisely because of its stillness and realism when paired with stories that need that kind of photographic realism. Anyway, I'm sorry for this dump of a comment. Hahaha! I really wanted to respond to this. But idk, what do you think? Anyway, have a good day!
@@spectacularlysentimental i definitely see your points, and agree even just adding SOMETHING to enhance the backrounds can increase the feeling of movement and i also love seeing different opinions so no hate i just love his art
The reason why precisely Paolo Rivera is the best of both worlds, both realistic and kinetic, yo can feel the movement on his figures
YES HIS WORK BELONGS IN BOTH WORLDS HANDS DOWN!! THE SAME DEBATE WENT ON WITH STERANKO'S EYEBENDING WORK IN THE LATE 60S & BARRY SMITHS WORK ON CONAN IN THE EARLY 70S ❤❤ ❤ ALL 3. BY THE WAY
Idk who this is but yeah that looks pretty good
Kingdom Come is my favorite DC story; it feels like the distilllation of everything DC is
Glazing the sups like crazy
damn underrated this vid is so good
Glad you enjoyed it. Hahaha!
Let me answer that question: Yes.
There, now you don't need to watch the video.
Kingdom Come changed the way I viewed the genre.
Travis Charest is another monster.
Yes...yes it does.
Can you do lee beremerjo?
I doubt I'll ever do a video fully on him, but maybe I'd mention him in a future video where I note one of his books. If I'm gonna be honest though, a good chunk of his work is way too edgy for my preferred taste most of the time. Hahahaha! He's definitely another talented creator though for sure.
Bottomline - no his art does not belong in comics. At least not in monthly comics. Not because if his realism or his artistic talent - nobody denies that he's wildly talented and his art is incredibly well done. The reason I say that is simple mechanics - there is no way to do Alex Ross slart as the main artist of a monthly comic book because he can't produce it fast enough. Maybe if it was a comic that came out once a year he could do it... but he is human and can produce fast enough to do the interiors of a monthly in that style.
yes
La sua arte è milioni di volte più godibile, espressiva , realistica , creativa , contenutistica e rispettosa dei personaggi, della cultura dei comic book e innovativa di qualsiasi film prodotto dal fallimentare lavoro di Hollywood sui super-heroes o sci-fi ! Rispettare e studiare questo artista e i suoi lavori è un dovere e un piacere
He makes a killing selling the originals.
Idk man when I read kingdom come I didn’t think Alex Ross art sucked at all. I was 15 when kingdom come came out he was loved at the time and no one hated him. I think this is just age difference
I would love to see him do art of Transformers and Sonic the Hedgehog.
Daredevil cover is Mark Brooks.
I liked his comic art in the last Fantastic Four that he drew, because he has an accurate anatomy, but he works with colors in a more surrealist way, which made him looser, more plastic, more appropriate for the comic book media.
I think his realistic art is very beautiful, but very rigid for a media It was by simply changing colors that he got the art right, he stylized the realism just enough to make it work, other than that for me it only works only on covers.
Its so beautiful
Alex Ross's art reminds me a lot of Norman Rockwell.
Yes
Of course it belongs in comics
I don’t read his comics because of the bubble. His work is AWFUL with white dialogue bubbles. His work should be rereleased with a different writing format.
Maybe as a comic dub using subtitles rather than speech bubbles.
this is like live action movie
I really like Alex Ross but mainly his cover artwork. When "Marvels" or "Kingdom Come" was released, his style was fresh and new. But by now there are a lot of artists with a similar style e.g. dell Otto. I really like a beautiful cover what do not prefer this artstyle for the interior artwork. Just like Adam Hughes. I just love his cover but when he pencils a whole story then it is not my favorite artwork.
how old are you?
I'm 19 turning 20 next month. I don't look like it all, right? Hahaha!
Yes..... I agree...... His recent Fantastic Four was actually very good, but there he was more playful and less realistic..................................... ciao
Yooo! Finally someone mentioned Full Circle! I had recorded a section about it in the video, but it broke the flow so I didn't end up putting it. I think that book shows that he is more versatile than most people think. He definitely experimented with that book, and it really did feel inspired by the early Lee and Kirby comics.
Alex Ross is static, like you said, and if it wasn't for his more iconic stories, he wouldn't have made it as more than a cover artist (which can be more lucrative, if less creative). So it's hard to pick him out as a favorite comics painter, when there are so many around the world who can tell a more proper story with similar techniques (Don Lawrence from the UK, on his series Storm, and Juan Giménez from Argentina, on Metabarons, are examples). But he can tell a story if he wants to, such as on his Uncle Sam mini-series for Vertigo, where it progresses as a series of snapshots of theatrical poses.
lol. its funny you say that... of course it belongs in comic books. his art is so iconic that marvels movies in the MCU try to emulate it with their color grading in those films.
I think you need to understand the difference between a photorealistic artist who uses paint to capture an action moment vs a cartoonist who uses pens to exaggerate action to convey movement. Daniel Martin Johnson is not the best example to juxtapose that against Alex Ross. He's a cartoonist, not an artist. There is a difference. But you bring up an interesting question of whether it belongs in comics. It's tough to say since the artform is a cartoonist medium, not an artists one. Ross' stuff belongs in The Louvre. But comics should bless their lucky stars they have Alex Ross. How lucky for comics that a fan just happens to be an artist. He's very special to comics and it wouldn't be the same without him.
YOU COULD HANG IT, IN A, MUSEUM!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! IT'S, THAT GOOD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
YES, IT IS THAT GOOD!!!
The comic not movie thing is really all american comics when you compare it to manga ive read shojo romance manga that had more energy than american stuff alex ross is just even further below that but i let him get away with it because of how great his art is
The only comic artist that can actually draw unlike the rest of the 90 or so percent of comic artists that get there drawing skills just by copying and tracing poorly drawn comic art 😂😂😂😂
Fantastic video! Ross is an undeniably great artist but I think it’s fair to say he’s not a great sequential artist, or even a great storyteller. His role in Marvels, Kingdom Come, etc. is really more as an illustrator than a traditional comics artist. Sequential art is all about motion, dynamics, energy. I love Ross’ cover work but put his interiors up against someone like Kirby and there’s no contest in terms of storytelling.
NO WAY! Josh from Panels to Pixels liking my video?!? Appreciate it, man!
Nope, he never fit comic books. But he would be great working in a body shop,
air-brushing lots of wild paint stuff in the detailing department.
im the 760th liker and 102 commenter!
and 840th subscriber
Welcome to the channel!
Alex Ross is a brilliant artist. Comic books are a sequential cartooning art. Whether Alex Ross is a cartoonist might be debatable. Sequential cartooning is an art form and craft unto itself that depicts consistency of scene panel to panel, illusion of motion on the page, and quickly-conveyed storytelling with a minimum of panels to convey an idea. Ross' art is wonderful. I love Kingdom Come and Marvels and all, but the realism of the drawings comes off as novelty to me at times and his figures appear to exist on the panel to be admired and looked at, and not exist in the scene. It might be cartooning to some. The debate continues.
Love the artwork from Kingdom Come, but at the same time I don't. It amazes my mind that it can look so realistic, but, that's not why I read fiction. I wan't expressive, overly exaggerated artstyles to fitting of those type of stories.
It's weird, I admire it, but I don't want it, like it's not my order or it's in the wrong place. I don't know, maybe that's just my personal tastes talking here. Comic books have been chasing realism for decades so it's longevity is a testament to it's value.
You can’t make an argument against this being in a book. Reading Marvels is the only way I can get through the 60’s era comics.
Daniel Warren Johnson is also overrated as hell.