Blickenstaff, Stephen

I first stumbled across Stephen Blickenstaff's beautifully twisted artwork on the cover of the classic 1984 album "Bad Music For Bad People" by the seminal Psychobilly/Punk Rock band, The Cramps. I've been a fan of the band and the artist ever since! I still remember the very day I bought the record - a dorky teenager just beginning his awkward journey towards self-discovery. That bright yellow cover, emblazoned with the disturbed drawing of an evil grinning, pompadoured, zombie-like maniac with a penetrating stare, is forever etched onto my brain. It, along with a few other key artistic catalysts, served as a kind of gateway drug, triggering hidden synapses, expanding my mind in exciting new directions, opening me up to brave new ideas that lurked beyond the mainstream. Many years later, I was delighted to rediscover Stephen's art when he began offering a few of his amazing Monster drawings on eBay. I bought many and we developed a friendly relationship that led to some great artwork and a steady correspondance. Stephen has a very distinctive and original style. I see elements of Basil Wolverton and Ed "Big Daddy" Roth in his work but he has a vision that is uniquely his own. Oh, and he just loves monsters! I haven't talked to him in quite some time but I know he's moved on to great success with many high profile gallery shows and commercial projects. Check out his website for further information and to see more of his excellent work. I was inspired to open this gallery room partly as a tribute to the recently departed Lux Interior (10/21/46 - 2/2/09), iconic mastermind and charismatic lead singer of The Cramps. R.I.P. Lux!