Boris Artzybasheff was a prolific magazine and advertising illustrator in the first half of the 20th Century. His specialty was anthropomorphic machines, such as sneering torpedoes, and smug internal combustion engines. I love the weirdness of his work, and the fact that it frequently appeared on the cover of Time many times despite its weirdness. If he were around today, his work would be confined to Fantagraphics.
I’ve long drooled for his 1954 art book, As I See, but even a beat up copy runs $200.
From the dust jacket:
“The artist has divided the book into four sections: ‘Neurotica’ is a series depicting frustration, timidity, alcoholism, et. al; ‘Machinalia’ is of machines which take on human forms out of their essence, as in a weird, grotesque dream. ‘Diablerie’ interprets the fiendish, often ludicrous instruments of modern warfare; the final group, ‘Escapades,’ ranges widely on our culture and human vanities.”
I was happy to learn today that Ken Steacy Publishing plans to re-issue the book. I don’t know when or how much it will cost, but I’ve got my wallet out. Link