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DAVE STEVENS (1955-2008)

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Of course best known to fans for his sumptuous pin-up paintings and his comic (and film) featuring The Rocketeer, Dave was simply one of the nicest people one could hope to meet. Though he groused good-naturedly at being nicknamed "The Slowest Man In Comics," it was also true that he was more concerned with the quality of his art rather than the quantity he created. He was passionate about the history of the comics field, instrumental in insuring that pin-up legend Bettie Page benefited financially from her renewed fame, and driven to become the best artist he possibly could be. Dave had served on the first Spectrum jury and was a constant source of inspiration and advice. He was a charmer. He was bright. He was funny. And, God, could he draw.

Brush With Passion

Rumors about Dave's health had been circulating for some time, but he preferred to keep his struggles private and not be a topic for idle chatter and speculation. But the last few years had been difficult ones for him as he battled a rare form of leukemia. Things got especially bleak last October and he was eventually forced to move to northern California so that family and friends could help him during his treatment. Even so Dave worked steadfastly on a book chronicling his career with us and we talked weekly, whether he was home or hospitalized – yes, Brush With Passion will be published, but we only wish that Dave was here to fuss about type and layouts and laugh about anecdotes and ask if this painting or that drawing was good enough to include.

We'll miss you, Dave.

Publicity shot of Dave Stevens

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Our Mission

To promote the fantastic arts and provide an annual showcase for contemporary artists.

Directors

Cathy Fenner
Arnie Fenner

Advisory Board
Rick Berry
Brom
Mark Chiarello
Leo & Diane Dillon
Harlan Ellison
John Fleskes
Irene Gallo
Bud Plant
Tim Underwood
Michael Whelan

Administrators
Arlo J. Burnett
Jackie Miles

"[Spectrum is] a lovingly produced celebration of fantastic art and works both as a contact directory for artists as well as a handy summation of the field today."

Kelly Link & Gavin J. Grant

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