Ragman by Joe Kubert

This is the kind of piece I prefer to keep stashed away or upoad for "great occasions". But I thought I would share this perfect piece of art in honor of Joe Kubert's passing this week.

When I got word that Joe was taking commissions again (thanks for the info, Michael), I knew the spots would fill ultra fast as I had missed a previous similar opportunity. So I contacted the responsible person at the Kubert school to organise the thing. The only request from Joe is that it would have to be a character he previously drew. As much as I love his version of Hawkman, Sgt Rock Superman, Batman or Viking Prince, I wanted something a bit more original. So after hesitating with another choice, I asked for a Ragman.

I was quite affected by his passing simply because Joe is/was my favorite Golden age artist. There are others I love but his longevity and the constant quality of his published work up to this day as well as his faultless storytelling command my taste. And yes I much prefer his work to Kirby's or even Ditko's (GASP!) if comparisons are needed. Affected also by the fact that I received this on the Friday before learning of his passing. 2 days of contemplating this gem, of being amazed to have been able to commission the great Joe Kubert then BAM, the incredibly sad news...As I'm sure you understand this piece now holds a very special place in my collection.

I hope you like the piece as much as I do. For me it's perfect, it's moody, it's storytelling in one character pose, it's sketchy in the famous Kubert style by a true master of the comic book form.

So thank you mr Kubert for all the amazing pictures, the hours of joy you brought me, the incredible amount of high quality work, the impeccable storytelling you choose to share with other artists and the incredible resulting legacy you leave behind. Thank you, dear sir.