Brad Holland_ The Call of the Wild-Tales of the Northland by Jack London Franklin Library

Brad was one of if not the best illustrator of his generation. I had the lucky privilege to work for him in the summer of '99, and his recent passing was a huge loss for the illustration world. I was lucky to know him even if just for a brief period. From the fist time I saw one of his paintings in person at the society of illustration I was, like most art students in illustration, captivated and inspired. Some of us a bit too inspired and thankfully went my own path instead of being a clone. Those textures and mood or feeling he created still are inspiring. Would have loved to have had a painting by him but they were always out of my price range if you could find one. When I spoke to him a few years ago he said he doesn't sell his work because each piece is personal to him. And if you listen to any of his interviews he always talks about how his art is person. SO.... Skip to today and not one but 3 small pieces from the Franklin Library came up for auction as a group and not only were they from the height of his painting prowess in '83 but opening price of $250! Thankfully the winning bid stayed in my price range and here they are for all to enjoy. I'll post the story titles when I can get a copy of the book. Enjoy and RIP Brad, gone but not forgotten.