Classic Space Opera Science Fiction Art
This is a list of fine examples of space related artwork in the legendary late 1970s style that I have come across. The style was pioneered by Christopher Foss and expanded to by the talented Young Artists illustration agency with artists such as Peter Elson, Agnus McKie and Tony Roberts.
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1
"Clear Air Turbulence" (Chris Foss, 1976). The IGB initials on the ship's hull are not a concidence, Foss made this painting specifically for the band's album. The original artwork is severly cropped on the album cover. -
2
"Quest in Time and Space" (Chris Foss, 1973). This lousy rape of a cover is actually a bastardized crop out from one of my favourite Foss pieces. The original features a rover on a cliff high above a city panorama. -
3
Title unknown (Jim Burns). Burns was associated with the Young Artists agency and his works were featured in the book Great Space Battles 2100-2200. This particular painting was not included in that book. -
4
Title unknown (Artist Unknown). I don't know who is behind this work but the album is the epitome of the somewhat hit and miss Laser Dance catalogue. -
5
Title unknown (Edwin van de Laag). This is also a beautiful example from the Laser Dance catalogue. -
6
Title unknown (Edwin van de Laag). Another of van der Laag's great covers, and the sole reason to own this rather bland single in my humble opinion. -
7
Title unknown (Mike Henderson). I had to throw in an example of the fine covers featured on the Hypersound label. I don't know anything by Henderson but his works appear to be computer generated but still retaining the spirit of the genre. -
8
Title unknown (Mike Henderson). Another one of Henderson's works. -
9
Title unknown (Trevor Webb). A slightly playful choice of motive but nevertheless a perfect example of what space opera is all about. -
10
Title unknown (Shushei Nagaoka). Another wonderful example of space opera treated right. -
11
Title unknown (Artist unknown). Stretching the concept a bit here but in essence this cover retains a bit of the space opera charm. -
12
"Record Lover" (Chris Foss)