Hi, Kids! As promised we have a story featuring the art of John Carey from Looney Tunes and Merrie Melodies No. 125 (March 1953).
John Carey’s career path was a very familiar one for many comic book artists of the age: He began his career in the 30s as an animator (Warner Brothers), then moved on to comic book work in the 50s and 60s and on into the 80s. As a comic book artist, his work was broad: He was best known throughout the 50s for drawing Warner Brothers characters (like the Porky Pig story we have today).
There is a bouncy, lush quality to Mr. Carey’s work in this story, so appropriate for drawing the rotund Porky and company! In this story, I particularly like the way Mr. Carey develops his pet-store adviser/salesman character in the purple top hat and three-piece suit. Wonderful stuff.
And let’s not forget that, among the many delights John Carey gave us, he was quite prolific on Woody Woodpecker comics - from the ‘50s into the ‘70s!
ReplyDeleteIn fact, you can see Woody’s evolution from “completely round-headed” to his more conventional “modern form” over Carey’s body of work.
Well observed as always, Joe. When researching De Lara a while back, I discovered his reach was so broad - he was such a master and could draw any of the Warner or Lantz characters so well. To my surprise, I don't seem to have any Woody stories from Carey - Just Don Gormley (whom I adore) and Dick Hall. I'm going to have to hunt down some Woody via Carey.
ReplyDeleteCarey came later, after the Lantz titles transitioned from Western's New York office to its Los Angeles office.
ReplyDeleteI found some Carey/Woody from the late 50s. Upcoming after the holidays by request!
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