Sad news reached us a few days ago that British Comics Legend Ian Kennedy has left us which has hit many of us hard. Ian's distinctive art style was a major part of our childhood, decorating so many of our favourite comic covers and annuals, Commando, Victor, Warlord and much, much more.
He achieved so much and I really can't do justice to his 70+ year career here, but see John Freeman's Down The Tubes respectful article for a wee taster and several moving tributes.
Ian was one of my - and so many others - childhood art inspirations and it was pure delight when, late in life he cautiously entered the world of modern comic conventions, allowing me and so many others to meet and thank him for the inspiration he'd provided.
I was fortunate enough to meet him at his first 'English' event in Birmingham in 2015, arranged and invited by my good friend, and fellow Kennedy fan, Steve Tanner - see the photographic evidence below! Ian was quite taken aback by the warm reception he received from attendess and happily signed and chatted with everyone with modesty, humilty and a smile.
We struck up a casual friendship, being as we were both from the North-East of Scotland, which to my joy led to many happy chats at subsquent conventions and events as Ian embraced his new found 'celebrity'. I was even lucky enough to pop into his home and studio a couple of times which was beyond a thrill, meeting his wife, Gladys, who makes a lovely soup.
I could happily share another dozen or so memories and it's clear from reading everyone's tributes, so could many others. It's so rare that a talented artist genuinely meant so much to so many people and he will be greatly missed.
I may share more later but in the meantime here's just a small sample of his exceptional art.
Thoughts and love to his family and many friends.
