Geeks: Tobias Buckell & Todd Lockwood
I’ve been reading sci-fi and fantasy since I was 13. In the 20 years since that time and even in the last 12 years of doing this professionally, much has changed in the industry—cover prices, cover art, the rise and fall of sub-genres, the internet(s) and blogosphere, etc.
But one truth has remained in my life concerning this madness and geeky celebration we call sci-fi/fantasy:
Science fiction and fantasy has the ability to bridge gaps between people of varied gender, race, culture and age.
One such bridging took place at San Diego Comic-Con 2008 between artist Todd Lockwood and writer Tobias Buckell.
Todd Lockwood is one of the preeminent fantasy and science fiction cover artists of our time. His work has graced some of the best novels of the last decade and he has quickly grown into a fan favorite where cover art is concerned. Always busy in his Washington State art studio, Todd brings to life visually what writers only see in their heads. Todd’s role is one of veteran artist who helps bookstore customers choose what books to check out just based on cover art alone.
Then there is Tobias Buckell, whose third book titled Sly Mongoose is newly released and in fine bookstores everywhere. Tobias is a relative newcomer on the scene, producing some of the best new and interesting science fiction ideas (or twisting of old ideas) that we’ve seen for some time. Tobias’s role is one of young writer who gives readers a breath of fresh air in a genre that can become stagnant at times.
Two very different people from very different walks of life but both sharing passion for sci-fi and fantasy—and able to meet for the first time!
In the YouTube video posted above, Todd gives Tobias a giclee/beautiful lithograph of the cover art on Crystal Rain, Tobias’s first book. They were both giddy to meet one another and it illustrates what it means to enjoy this genre. They’ve never spoken before but right from the moment they met they shared a bond out of mutual respect that wouldn’t be there if their passions weren’t similar.
Just an example of why I love being surrounded by similar geeks all of the time!
Below are more YouTube videos of Todd Lockwood and Tobias Buckell talking about their work, what has influenced them, and how great it is to be a geek at Comic-Con!
And they may not like me labeling them “geeks.” But I say it out of utter affection and care for two people who embrace what it means to be human in the here and now and who promote a genre that brings people together and doesn’t push them apart!
So go out and buy Crystal Rain by Tobias Buckell if you haven’t already read it and know that the author gives a 110% thumbs-up to the cover art and the artist, Todd Lockwood! Or visit Todd’s website at www.toddlockwood.com and buy the giclee he gave to Tobias!
It took both of them to bring that book to life, and they both illustrate why it is important to be proud of being a geek!
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Such beautiful artwork! You know, I guess I never thought about it before, but I love the art on so many of these SciFi and Fantasy novels for the same reason I geek out about the stories - there's just so much imagination at work. I suppose you could probably apply that across the fictional spectrum...but I think the flavor of the art changes.
Tell Todd not to worry about blowing his money on masks, it looks like I'm going to give him some of my own for a giclee or two. Even stevens, right?
Great video of towering talents! SHWEET.