Frank Frazetta Museum

Being an artist means it is especially important to observe and dissect the work of others. This helps with inspiration, but also, the fostering of new techniques and concepts. It is from doing this that I have learned, and continue to learn, to draw.

Recently, I had an amazing experience visiting the Frank Frazetta Museum in East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania. Frazetta just so happens to be one of my boyfriend’s favorite artists. Upon discovering the museum, he suggested we visit it — so I happily obliged.

Frank Frazetta, known as the godfather of fantasy art, is best known for his fantastical and science-fiction-themed artworks. One of his best-known works is his cover for “Conan the Adventurer.” Many of his works depict action-heavy scenes of conflict, intense movement, and power. Each is beautifully composed. Many of his works are paintings, but he was also an illustrator. Every bit of his work is jaw-dropping levels of stunning. So much technical skill, craftsmanship, and care was placed into all of his works.

At an early age, Frazetta was enrolled in the Brooklyn Academy of Fine Arts. He worked as a cartoonist and comic book artist before slowly moving into other freelance work. He did covers, paintings, and other commissioned artwork that built up his reputation as an amazing artist.

Later in his life, Frazetta had six strokes. He relearned how to draw with his left hand and continued working until he died in 2010.

(On the right is a painting created with his left hand. Colors and tone are noticeably softer.)

The Frank Frazetta Museum showcases so much of his artwork and his process. It went through his life, different commissions, and personal works. As a perfectionist, it was endearing seeing he too was the same way. Some of his paintings have two or so versions — one that was abandoned, and one that he was happy with. When visiting, his family members can give you a tour through the museum and give deeper insights into his life. The museum is self-funded, so it’s especially nice to support them as they try to collect and preserve his work.

(Left is the original painting. Frazetta later remade it due to the background being too distracting.)

I personally don’t really like museums or galleries all that much, but I was super blown away by this place! His work is so stunning and there’s so much to analyze. Alongside Frazetta’s work are the creations by his beloved wife, Ellie Frazetta. A bunch of her sculptures are lined up under his paintings. There’s also a small shop where you can buy a bunch of prints, merch, and cute items. It was such a fun and informative experience which helped widen my horizons as an artist.

I highly recommend visiting!