2011 HarperCollins calendar

I didn't know that an essay is included. What's it about?

I have not seen any Diary this year, has HarperCollins given up on Diaries?

yes... no diary this year

Belatedly -

The essay is by Cor Blok, and is entitled, "Pictures to accompany a great story." It occupies the first four pages of the calendar (although about a third of the second page, and a small part of the fourth page, are taken up by illustrations); the text is large and well-spaced, so the essay is rather shorter than you might expect from a simple "four page" description. Cor Blok comments on his approach to Tolkien illustration in general (although he does say, "This is why I refer to my work on 'The Lord of the Rings' as 'accompanying' rather than 'illustrating' the story). He also talks about the two pictures included with the text ('In The Golden Hall' and 'The Oliphaunt' - the latter is also on the cover).

Hope this helps.

- wellinghall

As you all noticed Tolkien Calendar 2011 will feature the art by Cor Blok (yes also use it in my avatar). Hope you all like it. In Tolkien illustration this probably about the complete other end compared to the works we have seen the last several years (Alan Lee, John Howe, Ted Nasmith,...) - still I hope Cor Blok's art can be appreciated by many. I would describe his art as wonderfully odd, but incredible fascinating.

At the moment I'm doing a lot of research on the art of Cor Blok and wanted to see if there are any members here that could help me out a little.

For example, who attended the SF convention in Eindhoven, The Netherlands, in November 1994? Who bought the Cor Blok paintings that were on display there (n° 18, 19 and 20) or took pictures of them? The convention was called Hillcon V and Seal-Con... all info is welcome! In fact, all info on Cor Blok's paintings is more then welcome!

Does have anyone have more info on the exhibition (and selling) of Cor Blok's art on SF conventions in the 90's? It is quit important to find correct info about this to really understand how his paintings were put on the market and got dispersed. At the moment I'm especially trying to locate all current owners of his paintings.

I'm especially looking for info on the following paintings:
Isengard
Ephel Dúath
Sam attacks Shelob
The game of riddles
Weathertop
The Last Bridge
Minas Morgul

All help is very welcome!