A graphic novel that tells the story of graffiti, from the subways and back alleys of 1960s and 1970s New York to the global sensation of today. Join photographer Izzy Fame on a vibrant journey through the history of writing on walls as she curates an exhibition on the rise of graffiti. Bomb It! follows the transformation of the movement, from a rebellious few tagging their names around New York to the emergence of bold, colourful throw-ups and wild-style pieces; hip-hop, breakdancing and street art; and the explosion of the small subculture into a world-wide phenomenon. Izzy traces the true story of graffiti’s origins and progression and encounters key figures along the way, including Taki 183, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Keith Haring, Chaz Bojórquez, Futura 2000, Blek le Rat, Miss. Tic, Banksy, Robbo, Margaret Kilgallen, Barry McGee, OSGEMEOS, Shepard Fairey, Invader and many more. Feuds spark, relationships grow and fracture, legendary crews form and all limits go up in smoke as graffiti culture spreads across the world. Artists evade law, censorship and the third rail; risk their lives to leave their mark; and make their way into museums and art galleries – with and without invitation.
Grab your gloves and your lab coat and prepare to explore chemistry, zoology, botany and astronomy in this ultimate science showdown. Did you know that Planet Earth is bigger than Mars? Or that you brushed your teeth with a chemical element this morning? Can you name a plant that eats insects? How about an animal that is louder than a jet engine? In Bigger Than This, the four suits have been replaced by four different fields of science – chemistry, zoology, botany and astronomy. Collect cards by asking your opponents for cards that are either bigger than or smaller than one of the science elements in your hand. If your opponent can’t satisfy your request, you’ll win the round. Keep an eye out for the eight wildcards that will cause a malfunction in the lab – they really throw a spanner in the works!
Packed with professional tips and interviews with leading graphic novelists, this is the ultimate guide on how to create a graphic novel. How to Draw a Graphic Novel is structured as a series of short art courses that combine technical advice with creative inspiration. Written by graphic novel producer Balthazar Pagani, the book includes lessons in how to construct a narrative, develop characters, design settings, as well as the basics of printing, binding and digital file set-up. Each lesson is supported by striking illustrations by graphic novel artist Marco Maraggi, and professional artworking tips are delivered in the style of a graphic novel by renowned Italian cartoonist and comics lecturer Otto Gabos. The book also includes biographies of and interviews with cult creators who share insights into their working process as well as work from their sketchbooks. Featuring reproductions and a recommended reading list of famous graphic novels and comic books past and present, this is the ideal workbook for all aspiring graphic novelists.
The ultimate guide for aspiring artists with a love of manga. Following How to Draw a Graphic Novel, Balthazar Pagani returns, joined by manga expert Asuka Ozumi, to demystify the process of creating manga, from the creative spark that inspires a story, to what it’s like to work in a professional manga studio. Featuring the work of Italian manga illustrator Silvia Vanni, and told from the point of view of two young manga fans, How to be a Manga Artist delivers a blend of professional advice and practical tips to guide aspiring creators, including how to construct a compelling narrative, develop characters your readers will fall in love with, and the basics of printing, digital file set-up, and self-promotion. How to be a Manga Artist also includes a specially commissioned chapter by renowned Japanese illustrator Fumio Obata - who encourages readers to look beyond the aesthetics of manga and to put themselves into the story to develop a style that is entirely original and true to them - as well as biographies of famous manga artists, definitions of key Japanese terms, and a list of must-read cult classics.
Unofficial and unauthorisedIn 1962, Andy Warhol displayed 32 canvases of Campbell’s soup cans in a New York art gallery. The art world – and what we consider to be art – would never be the same again.Follow Warhol through his upbringing in Pittsburgh, moving to New York City, finding inspiration and conquering the creative world, in this unique graphic biography.Discover what made Warhol tick – his delights, drives and frustrations. Immerse yourself in his fascinating lifestyle within the New York scene and the incredible way that he continually evolved as an artist.For those looking for an entertaining introduction to this giant of modern art, or for existing fans after a fresh visual take, this graphic biography reveals the real Warhol.
Brilliant and controversial, bold, and rebellious – British fashion designer Alexander McQueen was an extraordinary creative force that was impossible to define. But what was the story behind the personal struggles that led to his untimely death? And how did this young man from London’s East End rise to become so prominent in the world of high fashion? This fascinating graphic novel follows the life of McQueen, from his early years as an apprentice to his catwalk collections. Following his close relationships, with his mother as well as mentor and patron Isabella Blow, it tells the story of how McQueen’s challenges and experiences made their way into his work.
During the course of their 10-year career, BTS have managed to do something no other K-Pop band have done – break the west. They’ve topped the Billboard Charts, won almost every music award and were named TIME’s entertainer of the year. But at the heart of this world-dominating phenomenon, is a message of kindness, community, and values. It’s this message that resonates with their millions of fans, their ARMY. This vivid graphic biography is a celebration of the motivations at the heart of this band. Each chapter is dedicated to a band member and a cause that inspires them – from ending violence against children to helping people access healthcare, from supporting education to ending child poverty: their activist achievements are genuinely inspiring and courageous. Interwoven throughout are entertaining stories about their tours and performances, but the heart of this book looks beyond the music to the values they represent, values that inspire us. This graphic celebration of the impressive philanthropic achievements of this K-Pop supergroup, will cut right to the heart of any BTS fan. Discover how BTS have changed something you care about, and be inspired to join them in making the world a better place.
When Harry Styles appeared on the cover of Vogue, he attracted attention not only because he was the first cis man to do it, but because of what he was wearing – a dress. From his message of inclusivity and love, to his cherished friendships and endeavours for gender equality, this courageous trendsetter has an attitude that could inspire every one of us. This wonderfully illustrated graphic biography focuses on the values that makes Harry so inspirational to so many people. He fearlessly showcases these strengths through his music, performances and fashion – from the Vogue cover to showing his vulnerability on stage. Brought to life with breathtaking immersive illustrations, this book celebrates the inspiring moments – both public and private – that have transformed this boy-next-door into a cultural phenomenon.
Dynamic and accessible, this graphic novel explores the complex and multifaceted career of one of the twentieth and twenty-first centuries’ most influential and iconoclastic artists.David Hockney’s career is highlighted by his continuous pursuit of new mediums, even as he remained steadfastly true to his identity.Told from the perspective of a contemporary and former art college friend of the artist, this graphic biography shows how Hockney’s nonconformity and fierce individualism made him famous while still a student and explores his friendships with other artists.It illustrates his highly productive years in Los Angeles, where the region’s vibrant culture and extraordinary light inspired his famous swimming pool series as well as his portraits of wealthy Californians. Readers learn about the artist’s experimentations with photography and other technologies; his brave and heartfelt documentation of the AIDS crisis; and his lifelong fascination with color. Finally, it portrays the artist’s mature years, as he embraced digital technology to fascinating and groundbreaking affect.Highlighting his most renowned exhibitions in museums around the world, this inspirational story comes vividly to life through the first person narrative and the imaginative graphics that express the ways a multitude of styles, themes, and personalities are woven into the life of a prolific and relentlessly creative artist.