via Lazer Horse
Probably best known for the film series Hellraiser and Candyman, Clive Barker has been at the helm of British horror since the 1980s. The Books of Blood, his series of short horror stories, really elevated Barker, with Steven King commenting, “I have seen the future of horror and his name is Clive Barker.”
I have always been fascinated by how Clive Barker could conjure such complex, vivid and fantastic places in books like Weaveworld and Imajica. Citing dreams as his biggest inspiration in turn inspired me as a child to push my imagination to its limits.
Books and films aside, Clive Barker is a prolific painter and illustrator. His art is understated and not necessarily skillful but a superb glimpse into his twisted imagination. Unlike his writing, Clive Barker’s artwork holds back on the theme of sexuality, but concepts of pleasure, pain and imaginary worlds feature heavily.
Here are some of my favourites. Dark and fantastic, like everything else Clive Barker puts his warped mind to.
Andrew Hall
February 25, 2015 at 8:51 pm
Most horror art uses muted tones or a monochromatic palette but his use of color is liberal & on point.
H Mee
February 25, 2015 at 7:34 pm
mind-blowing
Edvin Lxlx
February 25, 2015 at 1:07 pm
Abarat is one of the best book series ever.
Michael Panduro
February 25, 2015 at 5:18 am
Anyone living in or near Copenhagen, Denmark, can check out the current exhibition of Barker’s work at Galleri Oxholm. The exhibition runs through March 8th and admission is free of charge.
Mike Rensmaag
February 25, 2015 at 12:49 am
Wow, I had no idea…