The Abyss Bernie Wrightson and colors by Kenneth Smith

Brought from a collection of a life long collector who unfortunately passed away.
He had bought these directly from Wrightson and Smith in the 70's. They are limited edition black and white prints, that were hand colored by Kenneth Smith.

Information about the collection I these were a part of.
Shasta/Phoenix Art Presents Selections From
The Richard Garrison Collection

An avid reader and devoted science fiction enthusiast, Richard Garrison (1953-2024) immersed himself in the imaginative worlds of pulp illustration and comic art from a young age. After moving to New York in the 1960s, he began frequenting early comic book conventions that brought together some of the most influential figures in comic, fantasy, and science fiction art. Over the years, Richard befriended and collaborated with a remarkable circle of artists—Roy Krenkel, Al Williamson, Bernie Wrightson, Jeffrey Catherine Jones, Frank Frazetta, Reed Crandall, Gray Morrow, Vaughn Bodé, Michael Kaluta, Kelly Freas, and Geof Darrow, among others. These creative exchanges often evolved into lasting friendships. Perhaps most significantly, Richard formed a close bond with Roy Krenkel, assisting the legendary illustrator by selling sketches and drawings at conventions and supporting the artist throughout his life.
In the 1970s, Garrison and writer Doug Murray co-founded HERITAGE Press, a small but ambitious independent publisher dedicated to science fiction and fantasy art. The press produced the well regarded Flash Gordon prozines (Volume 1, Issues #1a and #1b, 1972), which featured artwork by classic strip artists such as Al Williamson and Reed Crandall. In 1977, HERITAGE published Queens Walk in the Dusk by Thomas Burnett Swann, illustrated by Jeff Catherine Jones. The book’s elegant design and high-quality printing were praised by fans and professional peers for capturing the artistry of Jones’s romantic, atmospheric style. HERITAGE went on to publish posters and print portfolios featuring Jones, Kaluta, and Wrightson, among others. Richard was approached by noted authors Robert Heinlein and L. Sprague de Camp about potential collaborations with Tim Kirk and Kelly Freas. Though those projects ultimately did not come to fruition, HERITAGE left a lasting mark on a community of collectors, artists, and readers who shared Richard’s passion for speculative literature and art.
Throughout his life, Richard remained a tireless supporter of the art and artists he loved. He consistently attended conventions like ComicCon and DragonCon, exhibiting his art, forging new friendships, and expanding on his extensive collection. He organized and hosted DeepSouthCon in June of 1978, bringing together over 700 fans, artists, and authors including Jack Williamson, the con’s Guest of Honor. Even in later years, and following a diagnosis with Lewy Body Dementia, Richard could be found at gatherings like the inaugural OAX—his ever-present, well-worn suitcase in hand—packed with a selection of captivating artwork from his collection. Always eager to share the stories behind each image with fellow fans, his genuine enthusiasm and encyclopedic knowledge made him a beloved presence within the community.
Beyond his devotion to art and storytelling, Richard was known for his
compassion and deep sense of service. During his years with the Emory
University Police Department, he embodied the true spirit of a “peace
officer”—one who protects with integrity, courage, and respect for the
rights and dignity of all. His expertise extended beyond defensive tactics to
include investigation, intelligence analysis, and de-escalation, earning him
recognition from the FBI, Secret Service, State Department, and international
agencies. He served nine tours as personal bodyguard to His Holiness, the
Dalai Lama, volunteered in disaster relief following Hurricane Katrina, and
along with his wife Cindy, dedicated countless hours to animal rescue work
transporting shelter animals to safety. His warmth and generosity of spirit
enriched every community he touched, leaving a legacy of compassion and
service as enduring as his art collection.
Shasta/Phoenix Art is honored to present Selections from the Richard
Garrison Collection—offering a small glimpse into the extraordinary
imagination of the artists he championed, and into the humanity and
curiosity that guided his vision as a collector.
www.shastaphoenixart.com



Below is the information I found on searching for this piece and another I also have listed.
These are limited-edition art prints (likely posters or portfolio plates) by legendary horror/fantasy illustrator Berni Wrightson (often spelled Bernie Wrightson), from the early 1970s. They appear to be part of a small series of signed/numbered horror-themed pieces produced around 1970–1972, distributed or published in connection with Kenneth Smith (a notable fantasy/horror artist and publisher in