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One of the most prolific and popular American illustrators of the 1970s and 1980s, Richard Amsel remains a titanic figure in the world of entertainment art. From his celebrated covers for TV GUIDE, to portraits of legendary personalities like Bette Midler, to his remarkable poster art for films such as THE STING, THE DARK CRYSTAL, MAD MAX BEYOND THUNDERDOME, and RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK, his work has inspired numerous illustrators (and imitators), while continuing to be enjoyed by millions of art and film lovers around the world.
His life and career, however, were tragically brief, and the aim of this website is to both celebrate his work and preserve his creative legacy. I am indebted to many of Amsel's friends, family, colleagues, and art collectors, who have shared their stories and expressed their support. I could not have done this without them.
I never met Richard Amsel. I was only twelve when he died, and it would be another fifteen years before I knew what the man even looked like -- much less the circumstances of his death, or the colorfulness of his life. But Amsel's work has always meant so much to me; it's as influential and as magical as the movies themselves. For that, the art and the artist deserve to be remembered.
A documentary feature film is now in the works, featuring interviews with the artist's friends, colleagues, and many admirers -- including a new generation of illustrators whom Amsel inspired. I hope, for my part, that the film and this site will help preserve his legacy in the years to come. It's been an amazing journey so far, and I've been so lucky to have befriended a number of remarkable, wonderful people.
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