Marvels #1

Although artist Alex Ross had drawn a few comic book projects he was relatively unknown by most.  All of that was about to change.

With Marvels #1, from Marvel Comics, published in the mid-1990s, Alex Ross suddenly found himself the new comic book artist sensation.

More than a comic book artist Alex is a classically trained painter (primarily in watercolor) and Marvels (except for a Dark Horse Terminator mini-series) was his first fully painted series.

What makes Marvels such a great story is that is told from the perspective of an ordinary man of the street, reporter Phil Sheldon.

Sheldon recounts the first appearance of the Marvels beginning with the Golden Age heroes.  The story progresses over the years as more and more Marvels appear and the effect they have on the general population and world.

The first issue features a clear plastic cover with the title superimposed over a full color cover painting of the original Human Torch bursting into flame.

Readers meet a young J. Jonah Jameson, witness the birth of The Human Torch, and encounter Namor-The Sub-Mariner and their first fight.

Captain America appears as America enters World War II and the combined might of The Invaders end up the first issue.

Kurt Busiek provides the story.  It’s hard to imagine that Alex Ross was barely in his twenties when he illustrated the series.

He has since gone on to be one of the most prolific, respected and well known artists in the world.

Proverbs 3:5-6 (NKJV) “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.”