The world of comics and illustration lost another great this past Sunday. Al Williamson died at age 79. For me, Williamson, like Alex Raymond, will be synonymous with science fiction adventure. It was through his science fiction work, particularly the Star Wars newspaper strip which introduced me to Williamson's clean, precise line and his particular vision of extraterrestrial worlds and their inhabitants. After that his work became readily identifiable and he's remained a favorite of mine ever since. His work for EC and on Flash Gordon are other favorite highlights of his career for me. I saw him once in the late-1980s, but didn't have the nerve to approach him, and never had the opportunity to meet him since. His work is gorgeous and I'm glad we are left with it. My condolences to his family.
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One of the greats, and while that term is overused, it's true here. I met him and Archie Goodwin at the same convention one year. Two of the nicest guys, and now both gone. Time to pull out my ECs and Star Wars strips.
Archie Goodwin remains one of my favorite people. He was incredibly nice and encouraging as well as being a great editor and writer. He introduced me to a lot of people when I was starting out in comics. I wish I'd been a little more fanboyish with him and talked to him more about all of his work that he'd done especially on the Warren comics. I still miss him.
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