Tolkien enthusiasts and art lovers had a special treat at Dragon Con 2017 with a visit by artist David Wenzel. Mr. Wenzel is best known to Tolkien fans for his illustrations for the graphical novel version of The Hobbit.
On Monday, the closing day of the con, Mr. Wenzel gave a fascinating panel on “The Art of the Hobbit,” talking about his history as an artist, the development of the illustrations for The Hobbit, and a little about the upcoming new edition of Kingdom of the Dwarfs, first published in 1980.
David Wenzel discusses “The Art of The Hobbit'” at Dragon Con 2017. Photo credit: Valdis Longbeard.
The panel was wonderful, filled with images of beautiful artwork, accompanied by Mr. Wenzel’s engaging commentary. The hour flew by, ending all too soon. I sincerely hope that Mr. Wenzel will return to Dragon Con and treat us to another panel for Kingdom of the Dwarfs.
Artist David Wenzel with Valdis and one of the prints she purchased at Dragon Con 2017. Photo credit: Valdis Longbeard. Artwork: David Wenzel.
Mr. Wenzel also had a booth in the vendors’ area, with many of his prints and even some original pieces for sale. I splurged on a few prints to bring home with me. As if the artwork itself isn’t special enough, Mr. Wenzel draws a sketch on each print someone purchases. You truly get a one-of-a-kind work of art! Mr. Wenzel is a delightful speaker, and very warm and personable. He was very kind and easy to talk to when I met him at Dragon Con. I can’t wait to get my prints framed and displayed!
Thorin Oakenshield and Roac, art by David Wenzel. The original sketch at the bottom of the print is Bilbo finding the Arkenstone. Photo credit: Valdis Longbeard. Artwork: David Wenzel.
You can find David Wenzel’s illustrated edition of The Hobbit at Amazon.com, and other booksellers. We’ll be keeping an eye out for that new edition of Kingdom of the Dwarfs and let you know all about it!
Cover art for the upcoming edition of ‘Kingdom of the Dwarfs,’ artwork by David Wenzel. Mr. Wenzel did a sketch of a dwarf queen at the bottom of the print. Photo credit: Valdis Longbeard. Artwork: David Wenzel.
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