REST IN PEACE ALEX TOTH
I was saddened to hear that one of my favorite illustrators passed away a few days ago, on May 27th. ALEX TOTH was responsible for designing hundreds, I mean hundreds of Hanna Barbera characters from the 1960’s through the 70’s. It was his job to quickly come up with visuals for the daily pitch sessions Hanna Barbera would have with the networks as well as designing model sheets and props for the many series constantly being churned out by the studio. Space Ghost is probably one of his most popular creations but he also designed the SUPERFRIENDS, as well as countless other characters and incidentals.
He was a huge inspiration to many of today’s modern animation talents like BRUCE TIMM as well as countless comic book artists. His economy of line and elegance of design was unparalleled. If you don’t know who Alex Toth is, or you aren’t familiar with his work, do yourself a favor and pick up some of his books, you’ll be inspired for the rest of your life. I know I was.
Thank you Alex, you were a god among draftsmen.
Manny and Alan
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On June 1st, 2006 at 12:00 am
A true genius.
He died at his drawing table. Not a bad way to go. just too soon.
On June 1st, 2006 at 12:00 am
a truly sad loss. toth was one of the best….
On June 1st, 2006 at 12:00 am
ah, man. Too many genius’ are passing as of late. John Ritter, Don Knotts, not too long ago we lost, Jimmy Stewart, Bob Hope, Charles Shulz and Frank Gorshwin. Didn’t we lose James Garner not too long ago too? This is all making me feel so old and sad. I had a girlfriend that turned me onto Alex Toth in College and I agree, he was a genius at his craft.
On June 1st, 2006 at 12:00 am
Some of my favorite stuff he did was on Space Ghost.
On June 1st, 2006 at 12:00 am
I hate to see Bongo so sad. And where is Bronk? Can’t he even bother to show up? I don’t know who Alex Toth is, but if he inspired you I will have to look into it.
On June 1st, 2006 at 12:00 am
Yeah that is a real loss. I loved the way he used black and white balance to really bring out the volume on his characters. he was a true talent. A friend of mine, Lance Falk has a huge repository of his Johnny Quest
(which he also designed) stuff that he did and he was kind enough to let me xerox it all. It’s like a telephone book of drawings. Great stuff. if I ever get the time, I’ll scan it and post it.
On June 1st, 2006 at 12:00 am
That would be awesome! I’d love to see some of that stuff.
On June 2nd, 2006 at 12:00 am
I’ll see if I can dig it for when you come out here…