The Art of Frankenstein: Brom

The Frankenstein Monster, stitched, stapled and patched with bolted iron stands among ruins, perhaps a mausoleum. His hollow gaze suggests despondency. The title of the piece, Alone, evokes The Monster’s words, as written by Mary Shelley:

“I am an unfortunate and deserted creature; I look around and I have no relation or friend upon earth… I have good dispositions; my life has been hitherto harmless and in some degree beneficial; but a fatal prejudice clouds their eyes, and where they ought to see a feeling and kind friend, they behold only a detestable monster.”

This splendid, melancholic painting is by the Seattle-based artist (Gerald) Brom, one of the finest fantasy artists working today. His bizarre, intricately costumed characters and vastly original monsters are as haunting as they are unique. Brom first came to prominence with his work for the Dungeons and Dragons role-playing games and collectable card games such as Magic: The Gathering. He has also produced book covers and designs for videogames such as World of Warcraft, and films including Sleepy Hollow (1999) and Van Helsing (2004).

The Frankenstein image appears in Darkwërks: The Art of Brom, published by FPG in 1997. Other Brom books include Offerings (Paper Tiger, 2003) and the recent illustrated novel The Devil's Rose (Abrams Books, 2007). Another illustrated novel, The Plucker (Abrams Books, 2005) has been optioned for films by New Line Cinema.

Brom’s official website. Dedicated web pages for Devil’s Rose and The Plucker.

Brom’s books are available through the Amazon links above, or directly from the artist’s web shop, along with a vast selection of prints.

Brom art gallery, and a fansite.