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| Artists: Alan Lee | John Howe | Ted Nasmith |
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Alan Lee is one of the best known Tolkien artists, having illustrated
both the 1997 edition of The Hobbit and 1991 commemorative edition of
The Lord of the Rings. He is also one of two artists chosen to create
the concept art for the upcoming Lord of the Rings movies (the other
artist is John Howe, to be featured here soon).
Lee prefers working in watercolor because it "helps me convey light and air and a sense of magic, which is a crucial part of what Tolkien is about." (see E! interview for more) However, despite his chosen medium, his style is very classic, almost Grecian. I especially appreciate his work because unlike many of his peers, he has "the whole package"; he paints people, landscapes, and architecture with equal skill. |
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The Battle of the Hornburg
The Hornburg was the chief citadel of Helm’s Deep. This picture, painted well before Lee became a concept artist for the Lord of the Rings films, is virtually identical to the "real" set as it eventually developed. I wonder if Minas Tirith will follow Lee’s vision as closely. |
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Treebeard
Treebeard is the kind of character no self-respecting Tolkien artist can ignore...although perhaps more of them should. In my opinion, only Alan Lee has captured the essence of this ancient creature. His Ent is tree-ish without being comical, like an old cypress stump come to life. Note especially his mossy beard, limber tree-root fingers and the depth of his ancient eyes. Sources indicate that the movie Treebeard will be a CGI creation modeled on Lee's artwork. |
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The Mirror of Galadriel
Lee’s paintings often have a slight Grecian feel, and his Galadriel is no exception. Note also her distant, wistful expression and the way she seems to glow with an inner light, as the most ancient of Elves are said to do. Remember, Galadriel is older even than the sun and moon. To see more of Alan Lee's work, visit his gallery at Rolozo Tolkien. |
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