Army Museum goes Commando

By John Freeman on May 26, 2011

Commando #1, published in June 1961. Art by Ken Barr

Scenes of action and adventure will fill the walls of the National Army Museum as ‘Draw Your Weapons: The Art of Commando Comics’, their newest exhibition, kicks off on Thursday 1st September 2011.

This colourful and dynamic exhibition explores the heritage of the war comic from its initial conception, its heroic subject-matter and its continuing popularity – and boasts original Commando equipment and histories from the Museum’s Collection as well as the iconic dagger featured on the front of the Commando comic published by DC Thomson which, unlike Battle Picture Weekly, is still going strong and celebrating its 50th Anniversary this year.

Launched in partnership with leading publisher, DC Thomson, the exhibition will showcase key artwork and illustrations that draw on the 50 years of the Commando series.

Established by Royal Charter to tell the story of the Land Forces of the Crown, the National Army Museum in Chelsea, London, explores the impact of the British Army on the story of Britain, Europe and the world; how Britain’s past has helped to shape our present and our future and how the actions of a few can affect the futures of many.

“War comics have huge appeal for all,” says exhibition curator Robert Fleming. “They’re packed with bold, brave tales and images which communicate the complexities of conflicts. The National Army Museum is delighted to work with DC Thomson to host this exhibition and celebrate Commando’s 50 successful years.”

“Everyone at Commando is delighted that this major exhibition of artwork is to be hosted by the National Army Museum, as one of the key activities of our 50th anniversary celebrations,” adds Calum Laird, editor of Commando at DC Thomson. “We’re sure that fans of Commando old and new, will revel in this display of comic art at its best, exhibited so dynamically by the National Army Museum.”

• Draw Your Weapons: The Art of Commando Comics opens 1st September 2011. The exhibition’s web page on the National Army Museum web site is here. The National Army Museum is situated on Royal Hospital Road, directly next door to the Royal Hospital Chelsea.

• Commando comic: www.commandocomics.com

• National Army Museum: www.nam.ac.uk

John Freeman

The founder of downthetubes, which he established in 1998. John works as a comics and magazine editor, writer, and on promotional work for the Lakes International Comic Art Festival. He is currently editor of Star Trek Explorer, published by Titan – his third tour of duty on the title originally titled Star Trek Magazine.

Working in British comics publishing since the 1980s, his credits include editor of titles such as Doctor Who Magazine, Babylon 5 Magazine, and more. He also edited the comics anthology STRIP Magazine and edited several audio comics for ROK Comics. He has also edited several comic collections, including volumes of “Charley’s War” and “Dan Dare”.

He’s the writer of “Pilgrim: Secrets and Lies” for B7 Comics; “Crucible”, a creator-owned project with 2000AD artist Smuzz; and “Death Duty” and “Skow Dogs” with Dave Hailwood.