* * *
Good [insert your time of day] to you, my lovely readers! As you can see, I've been making some changes to the look of my blog. I figured after all this time I could use a fresh look here... perhaps something more fitting with the title, "Writing in Rivendell". What do you think? I feel like the blog description is way easier to read than it ever has been, which is good because that's been a thorn in my side since day one.
Today I'm here to share some of my favorite artists who often work with themes from Middle Earth. There are so many wonderful artists, but these are the few that stand out most in my mind. So, whether you're a fan of Middle Earth or not, get ready to enjoy some truly spectacular artwork!
(DISClAIMER: Images below are subject to copyright. I do not own any of the artwork shown below. Each piece will be accredited to its original creator. Please respect the artists and their creative property. :)
* * *
John Howe
The first Middle Earth art I had the pleasure of enjoying was done by John Howe, who was one of the leading concept artists for Peter Jackson's film trilogy. He has also done extensive work for many other fantasy series, including many by Mercedes Lackey, or Robin Hobb, and also some from his own imagination.
 |
| Legolas and Gimli at Helm's Deep property of John Howe |
 |
| The House of Tom Bombadil... I assume. Either that or Radagast's. property of John Howe |
 |
| Minas Tirith property of John Howe |
Alan Lee
And speaking of concept artists for the film trilogy, Alan Lee was another prominent leader in that department. He also illustrated one of the editions of The Children of Hurin.
 |
| Rivendell property of Alan Lee |
 |
| Turin Among the Outlaws property of Alan Lee |
 |
| Beleg Cuthalion's search for Turin property of Alan Lee |
Jenny Dolfen
(Pronounced Yenny)
This artist works in watercolor- which is very inspiring to me since I am a great fan of watercolors. She does tutorials on youtube, and I'm hoping to learn a thing or two from her because THIS! THIS IS WHAT I WANT!
 |
| Maglor, son of Feanor property of Jenny Dolfen |
| The death of Maedhros property of Jenny Dolfen |
 |
| The Darkening of Valinor property of Jenny Dolfen |
Gerwell
(I don't know their real name)
I found this most interesting artist on Deviant Art while looking for Silmarillion illustrations. What I find intriguing about this work is the detailed character designs, particularly for Sauron in his 'youth'.
 |
| A number of characters, most prominently Sauron property of Gerwell |
 |
| When Sauron first tests the power of his One Ring over all the rest... property of Gerwell |
 |
| Portraits of Silmarillion characters property of Gerwell |
Hannah Williams
A lot of you know this up and coming young artist. She's in most of your blogging circles, and was a member of that same beloved Underground forum that served as the starting point for my internet activity. Hannah also does a lot of work with themes from Tales of Goldstone Wood, a series which I desperately want to read but cannot find anywhere in my area.
 |
| Songs of Power property of Hannah Williams |
 |
| Maedhros Before Morgoth property of Hannah Williams |
 |
| Beleg Amongst the Outlaws property of Hannah Williams |
* * *
Well, there you have it! My top five favorite Middle Earth Artists. Do you have any favorite artists- Middle Earth-themed or otherwise? Let me know in the comments below. I'd love to hear from you!
-Emmarayn Redding
