The Art of Stephen Hickman: Empyrean

If you ever read a Harlan Ellison, Anne McCaffrey or Larry Niven sci-fi book, usually the sci-fi art cover that catches your eye is drawn by artist Stephen Hickman. This full-color hardcover art book – “The Art of Stephen Hickman: Empyrean” is collection of Hickman’s amazing 40 years in fantasy sci-fi art.

“For me, fantasy imagery is simply my favorite place to work and live, and nature … Personal imagery, much of it inspired or informed by nature, is becoming more important to me the more painting I do, and fantasy is my direction of choice.” Stephen Hickman.

Each art piece pictured in the book, whether it be a small project, book cover or commission work, Hickman goes in-depth talking about the idea behind the piece, inspirations and art-style. Hickman also goes over why illustrating J.R.R. Tolkien writing is the hardest.

Up and coming artists looking for inspiration and reference should grab this incredible art book by Hickman. I do like dragons and knights, but I really enjoyed Hickman’s science-fiction section as he explains his style and approach to a project. I like the mix of “Heavy Metal” fantasy girls and futuristic imagery. The Art of Stephen Hickman: Empyrean published by Titan Books is available now.