Brian Bolland

Brian Bolland is a British comics artist best known for his meticulously detailed and realistic art style, particularly in the realm of character design and facial expressions. He is highly regarded for his work on both covers and interior art, and is considered one of the most influential comic book artists of his generation.

Bolland began his career in the UK, working on comics such as Judge Dredd for 2000 AD. He quickly gained recognition for his distinctive approach to the character and the futuristic world he inhabited. He often collaborated with writer John Wagner on Judge Dredd stories.

His work in the United States brought him further acclaim. Notable works include Camelot 3000 (with Mike W. Barr), a 12-issue mini-series reimagining the Arthurian legend in a futuristic setting. His most celebrated work is likely Batman: The Killing Joke (with writer Alan Moore), which presents a controversial and influential origin story for the Joker. Bolland's contributions to The Killing Joke were particularly praised for their psychologically impactful depictions of both Batman and the Joker.

Beyond sequential storytelling, Bolland has also produced a large body of cover art for various publishers, including DC Comics and Vertigo. His cover work is frequently characterized by its striking composition, clean linework, and use of color. He is also known for his redesign of the character Zatanna, giving her the look that is still associated with her today.

Bolland's influence can be seen in the work of many contemporary comic book artists, and he continues to be a respected figure in the industry.