I want to make it clear that the pictures were not used due to lack of space and once you see them, you will understand why I will vehemently deny that these pictures are rejects. Believe me, they are anything but!
I would again like to thank Gordon and his family for their indulgence and allowing me to see these beautiful pieces. I would also like to thank Peter Richardson who generously allowed me to use his interview transcript with Gordon from 12 years ago to fill in some blanks.
So without further ado, allow me the pleasure of putting up some of Gordon’s art for your viewing pleasure…
Pencils from an old sketchbook
A Selection of Pictures From the Romance Weeklies Secrets and Red Letter
If you liked those, then you are now in for a real treat, as it is my privilege to present to you some original art of Gordon’s that has never been seen by his fans. These illustrations were originally produced for publication in Secrets.
And if that was not enough, here is some original art from Gordon’s personal collection
This is a lovely portrait of Gordon’s daughter from the age of three. And it is a striking likeness. In fact, the more I see this piece, the more I appreciate it.
This piece is so gorgeous, it looks like it should be on a stained glass window. I love the look of the blonde hair in comparison with the gloves. And the eyes are just stunning.
This final one is a wee bit interesting, due to the chunks cut off at the bottom. I think it has more than a passing resemblance to his earliest painting style, as evidenced by the lovely painting of the blonde, but his daughter is not convinced. I just wonder if this was done to illustrate an advert in one of the DC Thomson papers of the time.
I feel sorry for you all that you have to rely on my meagre photographic skills as these were so beautiful to be up close and personal with.
Gordon, thank you for bringing so much beauty into our lives.
A life-long comic fan, specialising mainly in UK adventure comics, Colin did his very best to support his passion for the comics of his youth, Commandos (still going!) and any small press that interested him. Sadly, Colin passed in March 2021, an invaluable downthetubes team member, much missed by us all
Categories: British Comics, Comic Creator Spotlight, Creating Comics, Features
Great article Colin, about a vastly underestimated pro who, for countless years, has probably been my greatest pal. His decision to lay down his tools on retiral was something I could never understand – but then that is Gordon – a wee bit of an enigma ! Sincerely, Ian Kennedy.