Tolkien, the Artist

[Estelyn Telcontar]

Thanks for the good replies so far! I'm glad to see that others are interested in this topic and have the same book. That, along with the link Encataire gives, provides us with lots of material for discussion.

Yes, Aiwendil, I too think that the impressionistic style is one that Tolkien obviously liked and found suitable for what he wanted to express. The paintings you mention are watercolour, which tends to look impressionistic anyway.

I remember seeing a website with pictures of Middle-earth calendars, Child; I'll have to find my old bookmark and post the link here. I don't know how many have his own pictures though - quite a few are Hildebrand, Howe, Lee, etc.

Lalwendë, "Bilbo comes to the Huts of the Raftelves" is the painting that is on the cover of my Hobbit book! I really like the stylized trees and landscape there and find the general impression is very close to Art Nouveau. I can see the similarity to some of the Clarice Cliff artwork, as well - thanks for the link! I hadn't thought of the possible Japanese influence, but there are definite similarities!