As millions thrill to the recent Chronicles of Narnia films, a new book jogs New Yorkers’ memory of the 1974 murder of noted Narnia illustrator Roger Hane. The 1974 murder of acclaimed illustrator Roger Hane in Central Park was a major news story in New York in 1974. The new book, Roger Hane: Art, Times & Tragedy, written by R. C. Hunsicker published by Vanguard Productions, is reminding people, not just of the artist’s demise but more importantly, of his brilliant work, which inspired a generation in the ‘60s and ‘70s.
The Vanguard book features near-300 pages of art and biography on the star illustrator of The Chronicles of Narnia, Eric Clapton’s Goodbye Cream album, Carlos Castaneda’s A Separate Reality, and more. Roger Hane (1939-1974) was a major force in the revival of American illustration toward the fantastic and surreal in the ‘˜60s and ‘˜70s. Two weeks after being named Artist of the Year, by the Artist’s Guild of New York, Hane was senselessly murdered. At the moment of his attack in Central Park, his art graced the covers of both New York and Fortune magazines.
America’s foremost designer, Milton Glaser, who was recently honored by President Obama, (along with Bob Dylan, the subject of Glaser’s famous silhouette poster), provides the foreword for this the new book. Glaser said that at the time of his murder, Hane was the best illustrator in America. In the new impressive compendium, award-winning visual arts and media producer—and personal friend of Roger Hane – Robert C. Hunsicker, expands upon the illustrator’s career and tragic demise.
The distinctive book is widely available and in addition to the IPPY Award, has been recognized by National Public Radio, Steven Heller, The University of the Arts, The Bradford Era, the Society of Illustrators, The Erie Times, The Philadelphia Inquirer, Print magazine, and is recommended by Library Journal.
Big thanks to ‘J David’ for the information presented here!
