Storm by Tony DeZuniga (thanks CAF for 20 fun years)
Artist: Tony DeZuniga (All)
30 Comments - 588 Views - 31 Likes
Artwork Details
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DescriptionThis one is special.
When I started my Philippine Artists gallery, I had a long list of names that I hoped to eventually populate the gallery with. And while there was never any intention of attempting to do this with any sort of historical chronology, I at the same time understood that if you follow that history back far enough, you eventually arrive at where it all began. For Filipino artists working in American comics, that beginning was Tony DeZuniga. Every single Filipino artist working (or who has worked) professionally in American comics, walked through the doors that Tony DeZuniga opened. Antony de Zuniga was born in Manila on November 8, 1932. Although he was already working in Filipino comics by the age of 16, he actually completed his formal studies with a degree in commercial art. Making his first trip to the U.S. to study graphic design in New York during the early 60’s. When he returned to NYC in the late 60’s, he was hired by legendary DC editor Joe Orlando. Orlando and then publisher Carmine Infantino were so impressed with DeZuniga that the two DC legends actually travelled to the Philippines in 1971 to try and recruit more of Tony’s talented countrymen. This scouting mission resulted in the discovery and hiring of Philippine legends like Alex Niño, Nestor Redondo, Alfredo Alcala, and Gerry Talaoc. These gentlemen represented the first wave of a constant and continuing influx of talent from the country. Today, when you look at the list of names, there may be a few that are held in higher regard by collectors. But not one single name on that list is more important than Tony DeZuniga. And so it is with great honor, pleasure, and pride, that I present the newest addition (and crown jewel) of my Philippine Artists gallery. About the art. Initially (even though I’m a Marvel fan), I thought it might be more fitting to have a DC character for my DeZuniga example. Especially considering that he began his career there and what his hiring at DC eventually meant for other Philippine artists. I mean, how cool would it be to have a DeZuniga Johah Hex or Black Orchid piece (two characters he co-created)? I have no doubt that if I had seen one of those before I found this piece, I would have jumped on it. But the art gods seem to have decided for me. So Marvel it is. I love this piece. I’m sure (whether consciously or subconsciously) a big part of the emotional reaction has to do with my reverence for Mr. DeZuniga. But look at this thing! It’s just so incredibly beautiful. As some of you know, I own the Art Adams cover to Classic X-Men #4. I’ve owned the art since 1989 and describe it as one of the very best drawings of Storm I have ever seen (by any artist). In 36 years, nothing has come close. Until now. Certainly, there’s a great sadness in the realization that I will never be able to tell Tony how much I love this piece. But I take comfort in the fact that by sharing her with you, it might illicit some degree of appreciation and respect for both the artist and the art. My thanks to Tony DeZuniga for the gift of his artistry, and for making me proud to have the same country of origin. Thanks also to Rich and the gang at Anthony Synder’s artroom (the 24-day shipping time notwithstanding, although most of the blame goes to the Post Office and the wicked winter weather). Word of advice, maybe wait until Spring or Summer to order art from the east coast. Haha! And now some special thanks. March marks my 20th year on CAF. I had planned to celebrate my 20th anniversary the same way I celebrated my 10th, when I posted some stuff from the vault. It’s somewhat ironic that I actually went the other way and took down most of my gallery at the end of 2024 (sorry). Still, I couldn’t let this anniversary go by without thanking the CAF community. So thanks to everyone who has ever visited my gallery, or commented on a piece of art, or messaged me through the site during the last 20 years. Thanks also to everyone who I have either sold art to or bought art from over the last 2 decades. Last but not least, a big thanks to the great and powerful Oz, Mr. Bill Cox himself. Many, many, years from now, when we’re long gone and the history of this hobby is written, Bill will have a proud and prominent place in that history. Thank you Bill! Social/Sharing |
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Comments on this Artwork
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Steven Dilworth
Member Since 2012
Posted on 3/21/2025
A beautifully written and heart-warming commentary and a glorious piece of art by one of the true greats.
Congratulations on your 20 years and on your Filipino art museum! It's a lot to be proud of!
E DLS 
Member Since 2005
1 - Posted on 3/22/2025
Steven Dilworth wrote:
A beautifully written and heart-warming commentary and a glorious piece of art by one of the true greats.
Congratulations on your 20 years and on your Filipino art museum! It's a lot to be proud of!
Thank you SO much for you very kind comment Steven. I never thought of my Filipino gallery as a museum. I just wanted a place where I could try to shine a spotlight on these pieces and these artists. Hopefully someday, someone will catch on to your idea and a proper museum will be established. Until then, I'm happy to do my very small part. Thanks again!
Lenny Messina
Member Since 2008
Posted on 3/21/2025
This is Absolutely Beautiful, the colors in this are Wonderful ..
Will K
Member Since 2006
Posted on 3/21/2025
How did ever you get so much mileage on CAF without Tony DeZuniga in your collection ?!? He certainly brought attention to Filipino artists and opened the doors for them. Happy 20th !!!
E DLS
Member Since 2005
Posted on 3/21/2025
Will K wrote:
How did ever you get so much mileage on CAF without Tony DeZuniga in your collection ?!? He certainly brought attention to Filipino artists and opened the doors for them. Happy 20th !!!
Ha! Well, I could say it was because I had lots, and lots, and lots of Art Adams. But I'd like to think my collection/gallery was a little more well rounded than that. At least before I took most of it down anyways. Thanks for the comment buddy.
Rick W
Member Since 2017
Posted on 3/21/2025
Really lovely piece. Tony certainly had a flair for color.
Happy 20!
Marcus Wai
Member Since 2005
Posted on 3/21/2025
DeZuniga art has power and grace. He appeared for many years in Bay Area conventions doing these pieces. I was happy to get a sketch from him to support a legend that many took for granted because he was local.
Also, RIP George Foreman.
E DLS
Member Since 2005
Posted on 3/22/2025
Marcus Wai wrote:
DeZuniga art has power and grace. He appeared for many years in Bay Area conventions doing these pieces. I was happy to get a sketch from him to support a legend that many took for granted because he was local.
Also, RIP George Foreman.
Thanks Marcus. While I know your comment isn’t intended to call anyone out, I’m ashamed to admit that I am one of those people who took Tony for granted. There isn’t a single good excuse for me not having acquired a DeZuniga piece long before this. I should make clear though that my buying this piece (or creating a specific gallery for Filipino artists) was in no way done out of some sense of guilt. I would never disrespect the artist or the art by tainting them in such a manner. It’s simply a regret I will have to live with for the rest of my collecting years. I’m just happy to be able to honor them while I still had the chance.
And yes, RIP to the great George Foreman.
Steve . M
Member Since 2017
Posted on 3/22/2025
I appreciate the pride you have in the artwork of your countrymen. You've gotten a great example by a giant. I've always loved Tony's art but never knew about the man. Thanks for the edification and the friendship. Happy Anniversary buddy
Paul P Spiderversity
Member Since 2011
Posted on 3/22/2025
What a beautiful illustration of Storm!! And congrats on 20 years on CAF! Wow! Man ... I have to wait until March 16 2032 before I've been on CAF for 20 years. That seems like so far in the future. But it's not!
Kavi H
Member Since 2018
Posted on 3/22/2025
your overview of Tony's contribution to comics history and as a fellow countrymen is almost as lovely as the piece itself...almost! :) Such a beautiful and almost hypnotic image of Storm, could look at this one for hours, must be even better in person! Congrats on the piece (despite the issues/challenges in it getting there, USPS does suck right now) and happy 20 years on CAF!
artless artmore
Member Since 2013
Posted on 3/23/2025
20 Years! Amazing. And what a super piece with which to mark the occasion! I really love DeZuniga's work and this is a fun one
Inominável Ser
Member Since 2016
Posted on 3/26/2025
This Zuniga Storm flooded my heart... Very beautiful, this work praised all her Strength & Power.
A K
Member Since 2017
Posted on 3/26/2025
Tony DeZuniga is a master and thanks to collectors like you, we know more about this remarkable talent. Your post was so heartfelt. Thanks for sharing, my friend.
James Dornoff
Member Since 2019
Posted on 3/28/2025
Such a great beauty, very well done. Congrats on this addition.
Mark Levy
Member Since 2004
Posted on 3/29/2025
Gorgeous and like many others I feel the colors are extra special!
Some Collector
Member Since 2017
Posted on 4/1/2025
20 years! Wow, you've seen some interesting changes in the OA hobby! Congrats!
E DLS
Member Since 2005
Posted on 4/1/2025
Some Collector wrote:
20 years! Wow, you've seen some interesting changes in the OA hobby! Congrats!
20 years just on CAF, but 40 years in the hobby. Yes, lots and lots of changes. Not all good of course. It's been a great ride with plenty of great memories, but also its share of regrets. You can check out my GOOD OLD DAYS gallery to get an idea of what I'm talking about. Anyway, thanks so much for the comment.
Chris K.
Member Since 2008
Posted on 4/2/2025
The Storm commission? A+.
The write-up? A++
'Wow!' on both, Eric! What a posting!
Comicart Boston
Member Since 2010
Posted on 4/10/2025
Apologies that this comment comes so late in the day. But many thanks for a great write-up. History is so important, if nothing else because it has to do with roots. And not just roots, but roots that run deep and that therefore constitute the foundation for all future growth. And this fundamental (and very practical) principle is what you capture here so eloquently.
Unfortunately, though, there appears to be an element of farewell and finality which I hope that I have erroneously perceived. At the end of the day, our hobby is all about that sense of wonder as well as the desire to share it with others - as you have, and in spades.
E DLS
Member Since 2005
Posted on 4/22/2025
Comicart Boston wrote:
Apologies that this comment comes so late in the day. But many thanks for a great write-up. History is so important, if nothing else because it has to do with roots. And not just roots, but roots that run deep and that therefore constitute the foundation for all future growth. And this fundamental (and very practical) principle is what you capture here so eloquently.
Unfortunately, though, there appears to be an element of farewell and finality which I hope that I have erroneously perceived. At the end of the day, our hobby is all about that sense of wonder as well as the desire to share it with others - as you have, and in spades.
Thanks CB! And while I HAVE entertained thoughts of possibly leaving the site at some point, this is not a farewell. I was simply acknowledging my 20 years on CAF by thanking everyone. Apologies if it came off as anything other than that. Again, as always, you're kind words are much appreciated.
Bill J
Member Since 2009
Posted on 4/17/2025
Absolutely stunnning Storm illustration by the great Tony de Zuniga! He really knocked this one out of the park! Love his use of so many media here, from watercolor to colored pencils. Love the green dragon appearing behind Storm! And I love the way Tony used her white hair to echo the white of the lightning bolt behind her! Also, thanks to you, Eric, for your wonderful write up of the influence Tony has had on bringing other Philipino artists to the attention of American Comic Publishers. The Comic Book orld would be much poorer without the contributions of so many great Philipino artists! (PS--Happy 20th CAF Anniversary!)
Eric L
Member Since 2016
Posted on 6/27/2025
Congrats! Tony deserves more love imo as a Bronze artist. I treasure a Red Sonja painting of his.
E DLS
Member Since 2005
Posted on 6/27/2025
Eric L wrote:
Congrats! Tony deserves more love imo as a Bronze artist. I treasure a Red Sonja painting of his.
Thank you Eric! I went to look at your Sonja piece and I can see why you treasure it. It is AMAZING!!!!! Anyone who is reading this should definitely head over to Eric's gallery to check it out.
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