David Levine

David Levine's caricature of George Soros for the New York Review of Books from 2006 showing signs of his visual difficulties.

I have read the very sad news that wonderful David Levine has put an end to his drawing career due to blindness caused by macular degeneration. It is a real tragedy for the world of art. For over fifty years this genius of caricature has regaled us with his witty and beautiful work on weekly basis. I want to express my gratitude to Mr. Levine for all the marvelous work he has created over the years.

Richard M. Nixon by David Levine from the 70's

McKean

Last nite I saw the incredibly prolific Dave McKean in the telly talking about children books and presenting his wonderful recent book "The Savage". It gives me the opportunity to post some pages from books he graciously gave few weeks ago. Dave's talent and capacity for work is simply amazing!

Olaf Gulbransson

Reputedly O.G. is the man who influenced Al Hirschfeld

Brute Force-Fuerza Bruta

Yesterday I watched again "Brute Force" (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0039224/)
It is an absolute gem!...Powerful and expressionistic. It is a re-telling of the story of the slave Spartacus and has overtones of Nazi concentration camp brutality. Sadistic Captain Munsey, the chief warden, listens to Wagner's "Die Nibelungen" as he tortures a prisoner in his office.
The film was directed by Jules Dassin (Rififi, The Naked City, Etc.) the music was by Miklos Rosza and it was photographed by the great William Daniels. Don't miss it if you can!!!

From Heinrich Kley's Sketchbook