Fantasy artist Tim Hildebrandt, who along with his twin brother Greg was a huge force in fantasy art, has died at age 67. His family released an official statement today:
Tim Hildebrandt has passed away. And, with him, so has an era.
Tim, 67, died today from complications due to diabetes. He is survived by his mother Germaine, twin brother Greg, sister Janie, wife Rita, son Charles, nieces Mary and Laura, and nephew Gregory.
Tim was an otherworldly artist. For 47 years, his captivating work fostered the dreams and fantasies of millions of fans, young and old.
Best known as part of the Brothers Hildebrandt team, Tim’s career transported him to–and through–many worlds. Technically speaking, Tim and Greg worked side by side. But their work together on such masterpieces as the original Star Wars poster and 70’s J.R.R. Tolkien calendars proved that their individual talents could coalesce seamlessly into one.
Tim was a wonderful man with a great sense of humor. While he loved and appreciated all forms of art, he had a particular passion for animation and illustration.
While he will be greatly missed by all of us who love him, we take comfort knowing that he will live on in the art that he created.
Anyone wishing to express condolences to Greg Hildebrandt can send them to:
The Spiderwebart Gallery
5 Waterloo Rd.
Hopatcong, NJ 07843
Although probably best known for their art for a series of Tolkien calendars — art which influenced a generation of fantasy artists — the Hildebrandts also illustrated Terry Brooks Shannara novels, Star Wars books and posters, and countless other fantasy projects. In the comics realm, they are probably best known for having done a series of Marvel cards. You can see more of Greg and Tim’s art at their website, brothershildebrandt.com.
We send our deepest condolences to the Hildebrandt family.
Source: The Beat – Comiccon
I had the honor of meeting Tim at Soonercon in Oklahoma City. He was a great guest and a great man. He sat and talked with fans and never seemed to get tired of people coming up to him.
He will be missed.
I grew up on the Brothers Hildebrandts. I remember being 12, standing in front of the theater, after my mom dropped me off, and staring at the poster for STAR WARS.
I was never the same after that day. Star Wars and the Brothers Hildebrandts. Good times. They lead me to Frazetta (the Godfather of Fantasy art if you ask me) and that other guy.. someone named boris somthingorother.
Light a candle and say a small prayer for a fellow traveler.
May God bless Tim and make his passing easier for his family. He is in a better place.