Artist Sam McKim has long been one of my idols, not only for his immense creative talent, but for being one of the finest gentlemen I've ever met. His positive, enthusiastic nature was so uplifting, so encouraging, especially to a young artist like myself in awe of this man.
Here's a stunning 1957 illustration by Sam for a short story titled "Butch and Jan Meet the Atom". Chock full of hopeful visions for the year 2000, the narrative promises a world of power, health and peace through atomic energy. In Sam McKim's hands, "tomorrow" certainly seems like a good place to be. 
Click to see the published spread.
Walt Disney's Mickey Mouse Club Magazine, April 1957.
So weird, I *just* looked at that issue of Mickey Mouse Club Magazine a week or so ago, and saw this illustration. I was unaware that Sam McKim had done illustrations for any Disney publications, so it was a cool discovery!
ReplyDeleteLooks like Sam used himself as the model for the man. Great job as always, Kevin!
ReplyDeleteLooks like Sam looked into the future and used Kevin as the model for the man to me!
ReplyDeleteI agree, the man in the painting really looks like Sam to me.
ReplyDeleteThanks for letting me step back in time to see the future! I haven't seen this piece before. We're going through my Dad's artwork right now to put a couple of books together, this one would be a fun one to include... especially because he painted himself. To my knowledge, he didn't do this very often. Thanks again Kevin.
ReplyDeleteKevin, forgive me for not first thanking you for saying such nice things about Dad. He was passionate about art and for encouraging others (especially young people) to pursue it as a profession. I'm glad you and Jody did! As many others, I always enjoy the art you two create.
ReplyDeleteThis is great!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the "Scene of Promise" here and belated congrats on your 2-yr blogaversary. :)
ReplyDeleteOk Major, that's pretty scary, I too was just looking at this article while I was looking for my MMC Halloween post.
ReplyDeleteThe guy in the illustration does look vaguely familiar...
Thanks Kevin, nice inspiring post!