R.I.P., Tony DeZuniga

Yet another comic book legend dies. I was first exposed to Dezuniga's bold inking over John Buscema's pencils in the black and white Savage Sword of Conan magazines published during the 1970's and the early 1980's. My very first Savage Sword issue was #56- the adaptation of Robert E Howard's SWORD OF SKELOS. From then on, I was HOOKED. I could not get enough of this black and white comic magazine! His inks over Buscema spurred me to collect Savage Sword on a regular basis and opened up a world of possibilities not found in regular 4 color comics.
Honestly, I wished the black and white, ink wash and zip a tone ride could have gone on forever, but it seems that only lasted as long as there were original Conan stories to be adapted. As those ran out, so did the sales, I guess. Thank you for helping to open my eyes to that Hyborian age magic, Great One. You are missed and adored.
Here is mark Evanier's article on Mr. DeZuniga's passing today. http://www.newsfromme.com/2012/05/10/tony-dezuniga-r-i-p/

R.I.P. AL RIO

 I know many of you learned of Al Rio's ( http://www.alrioart.com/ ) passing in January. Al Rio was one of the first artists of the last 2 decades whose artwork was a great inspiration for me to follow as a standard for modern comic art. I couldn't believe it when I read the news, as I was eager to meet Mr. Rio someday soon.

Al Rio was a Brazilian artist who worked on such comics as Grimm Fairy Tales, X-Men, Spiderman, Star Wars, Gen 13, Vampirella and so many more. He also had art appear in trading card sets and did sketch cards as well.

A great artist, Al Rio was also a great person, tutoring art students and donating art to worthy causes.

Al leaves behind three children: Rene, Adrielle, and Isabel, and his wife Zilda. His funeral will be held on Wednesday, February 1st, on Cemitério São João Batista, in Fortaleza, Brazil.

Contributions may be made to his family on his behalf through Kickstarter, and condolences may be sent to his family through terry@alrioart.com and David@glasshousegraphics.com.

(FROM HIS WEBSITE--I urge you to visit, as his agent, Terry Maltos has been offering sales to benefit the family-thank you so much for your kind consideration)

 "If you would like to help Al Rio's family, please look around here at the Art For Sale, or I will make you custom Prints or buy some items from the Zazzle store. If you would like to just donate, please do so here. Al Rio's death has left a family without an income earner." http://www.alrioart.com/