Jack Kirbyis one of thefoundational legends of comic book history, though as vividly as many comic fans can picture his style, and the stable of iconic characters he created, it may be more difficult for them to envision the artist himself at work. Now, at least,they have a clearer idea of what his desk looked like, after his granddaughter shared a picture of iton social media.
In a post on X, Kirby’s granddaughter Jillian (@Kirby4Heroes) posted a picture of the artist’s drawing board taken following his death in 1994. Writer Gail Simone –a comics superstar in her own right– responded, noting a mix of both reverence and unease looking at Kirby’s desk.
For fans who venerate Kirby for his role as a visionary creator – who played a pivotal role in shaping the comic book industry, and the medium, with his time at both Marveland DC Comics– this is an incredible artifact, and Simone’s response sums up the feeling of looking at it perfectly.
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A Look At Jack Kirby’s Drawing Board Prompts A Look Back At His Illustrious Career
Original Post: @Kirby4Heroes On X
In response to the original post, currentUncanny X-Menwriter Gail Simone reposted it, noting that “this photo fills me with awe and terror.”
As an artist, and an unparalleled creator, Jack Kirby realized entire worlds. From the formation of the Marvel Universe as readers know it today, tohis “Fourth World” stories for DC, which helped to elevate the company to another level of cosmic storytelling, his work was expansive, ambitious, and has had a lasting influence on every subsequent generation of creators that only a few of his contemporaries can claim. Kirby’s work remains endlessly exciting, and ceaselessly entertaining; consequently, it is fascinating to get a look at the table where he spent so many hours creating unforgettable characters and moments.
In response to the original post, currentUncanny X-Menwriter Gail Simone reposted it, noting that “this photo fills me with awe and terror.” Her response was meant to be as amusing as it is loving, of course;the defining feature of the desk is how well-worn it is, from decades of constant use, as the prolific Jack Kirby churned out some of the most visually stunning moments in comic historywhile sitting there. Jokes aside, Kirby’s writing space suggests an ability to tune everything around him out completely as he worked, wholly entering into the world of his creation.
Like Gail Simone, Superhero Fans Should Be In “Awe” Of Jack Kirby’s Role In Comic Book History
Given the opportunity, readers should take the opportunity to engage with more of Jack Kirby’s work, to capture some of that “awe” that Gail Simon described.
It is perhaps this sense – that Jack Kirby did not need even a hint of comfort as he worked – that left Gail Simone in awe at the photo of Kirby’s desk. For aspiring artists, this should be inspiration to dedicated themselves wholeheartedly to their craft. For everyone, it shouldserve as a reminder torevisit Kirby’s greatest hits, and to develop a greater appreciation for his legacy, something that is essential to having a holistic understanding of comic books and their century-long history.
Especially for fans of superheroes who have come to the genre from other mediums – the MCU films, for example, or theArkham Asylumvideo games – it is a rewarding experience to learn more about the history of comics.Jack Kirby is essential to that history, which is what makes his drawing board such an incredible, museum-worthy artifact. Given the opportunity, readers should take the opportunity to engage with more ofJack Kirby’swork, in order to capture some of that “awe” that Gail Simon described.
