R.I.P. KEN KELLY

Just a few days ago we lost another great artist and illustrator. Ken Kelly passed away on June 3, from an undisclosed illness at the age of 76.

Kelly's unmistakable work appeared on a multitude of media, including book covers, Warren Publications and heavy metal LP sleeves (Kiss, Dio, etc.). Comparisons of his style to Frank Frazetta are well-founded; he was Ellie Frazetta's nephew and studied under Frank.

Like his uncle, fantasy, horror and sword & sorcery won't be the same without him.

From ROLLING STONE:

Ken Kelly, the fantasy artist who created the iconic album covers for Kiss’ Destroyer and Love Gun, has died at the age of 76.

No cause of death was announced. Members of Kiss turned to social media Saturday to pay tribute to the veteran comic book artist who painted two of their most memorable images in the Rock Hall-inducted act’s iconography.

Gene Simmons tweeted Saturday, “Sad to find out Ken Kelly, who painted our Destroyer album cover passed away. A kind and beloved gentleman. Rest In Peace.”

Former Kiss drummer Peter Criss wrote on his website, “I am heartbroken to hear of the passing of my dear friend Ken Kelly. He was an amazing man and talent. A gentle, kind, funny honorable man. A man of integrity and grace. I loved him so much. His art work graced the cover of two of our iconic albums. He brought out the super heros in us. He will live on through his incredible work.”

A gallery of Kelly's original art:

Chamber of Illusions.

Barbarian Woman.

"Conan the Valiant" paperback cover.

Creepy #134 cover.

"The Crystals of Mida" paperback cover.

Dungeon of Death.

Eerie #29 cover.

Eerie #59 cover: "Dax the Damned".

Flight to Opar sketch.

Helmed Warrior.

Pencil sketch.

The Mighty Kong.

Vampirella 2012 calendar.

Vampirella #6 cover.

Vampirella.

War Bird.

Warrior Princess.

Barbarian Warrior.