Artist Frank Frazetta died

Marshalls Creek artist Frank Frazetta with one of his paintings on Oct. 24, 1994.
Pocono Record file photo



By HOWARD FRANK
From the Pocono Record
May 14, 2010

He stands atop a mountain of carnage with his sword held before him. Rippling muscles stretched over a tall, athletic frame, with long black hair and a piercing stare.

Conan the Barbarian was one of the late fantasy artist Frank Frazetta's best-known works. Like some of his characters, Frazetta's magic reigned over the world of serpents and heroes he created.

Frazetta died Monday of complications from a stroke he suffered in his Boca Grande, Fla., home Sunday.

"To the world, Frank Frazetta was a world-class artist. But to us, his children, Frank Frazetta was a wonderful and loving father whose first joy was his family," said Heidi Frazetta Grabin, one of his two daughters.

Frazetta's family still mourns the passing of his wife, Ellie, last June. Now they have to deal with the loss of a man many consider a legend.

"He was full of life, energy and humor," Grabin said. "His wit was as quick as his fastball. He was a kind soul who respected and appreciated people, but he never suffered fools gladly."

The master fantasy artist was known around the world for his unique sword-and-sorcery themes.

"He has inspired artists, directors, film people of all sorts including George Lucas, creator of 'Star Wars,'" Peterson added.


It's not yet known exactly what the family has planned for Frazetta's artwork or intellectual property rights. Frazetta sold few of his paintings, electing to hold on to most of them. A few weeks ago son Bill said they planned to put the collection, much of which was housed in a Marshalls Creek museum that now stands empty, on the road so more fans could see the originals.

"There's nothing like seeing Frank's artwork up close. You've got to see it to believe it," Peterson said.



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