by Drew Friedman, Daniel Clowes (Foreward), Ben Swartz (Introduction). Publisher: Fantagraphics (January 1, 2007)
Softcover, 144 page
This
will be a short review because there's very little I can say about the material
in this book which cannot be seen from the illustrations provided. In fact, you
reading now have probably already made up your mind on whether you're going to
buy this volume.
I've
never met anyone who didn't like Friedman's work, or seen anyone, or smelled
anyone (I assume they would stink of sour milk and Bengay), and that's because
it's almost impossible not to be blown away by the skill and detail clearly
visible in each panel. Each portrait is riddled with life, bringing out the
humanity and innate cultural ugliness in each person. No one is too might and
mighty not to be brought down a few pegs by Friedman’s work.
As
Daniel Clowes points out in his introduction Friedman’ charactures are somehow
more real than actual photographs of the subjects. In this volume covering his career
from 1991-2006 (but not his pieces for Heavy
Metal unfortunately), Friedman collects numerous portraits of famous
people, satirical strips with obscure pop culture references, and an entire
section devoted to The Duke of Eltingville- a rare creation of his own. Also included is a lengthy biography of the
man, detailing his first publishing efforts with Weirdo, his rise to success
and his problems with Joe Franklin and Woody Allen.
For more readings, try books by Rex Hurst.
For more readings, try books by Rex Hurst.
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