Drew Struzan The Early Years
“The 60’s were a time of change, excitement and innocence, of diversity, freedom and experimentation, for finding one’s self and doing your own thing. It was the age of youth, the decade of love… and it was about to be our time.”
Pacific Eye & Ear was a small close-working, super creative force combining art, business and production expertise, that played a critical role in what I’m calling the “Golden Age Of Custom Album Packaging”. Everyone enjoyed it. We all remember the large format albums with liner notes that were big enough to read and the Pop Art appeal of panties stretched over the record; a real zipper imbedded into the cover; or an over sized wallet with a pull out Billion Dollar Bill.
We graphic artists, illustrators and photographers provided the emotional connection that these covers helped evoke. Our contribution became another vital link between the musicians, their music, and the messages they were delivering to their fans. We strived for originality and creativity, like the music we were packaging, and delivered it too the world via this newly found art form. Excited and challenging, we were creating the rules and blazing a trail. It was a great experience, fresh and fulfilling, which regrettably only lasted 15 years.
In late 2010, I will be publishing “Drew Struzan - The Early Years 1972 – 1975″ book. It’s a visual and verbal documentation of Drew Struzan’s work from when he graduated from Art Center Pasadena to his first movie poster in the 70′s. The book will be a never before seen visual depiction of the evolution of his iconic movie poster style.
12 Comments on “Drew Struzan The Early Years”
Looking forward to the book. I know it will be fantastic.
Congratulations you are the very first commenter and I will be sure to let you know just when the book will be out. Thank you – Ernie
waiting, patiently.
From the video I watched on you from facetoface…I know you…KNOW..what an impacet your creativity has had on our generation…I was going to start this comment with “you have no idea how…” but you do…and I see you are deeply and sincerely humbled by it all… that’s what makes you even more cool Mr. Cefalu. Fo Shor
@flippy Thank you for you’re extreamly kind words, I am both honored and humbled by them. – Ernie
Ernie, Looking forward to Drew’s new book! As you know I am a big fan of his cover work as well as his poster art. Can’t wait to see what treasures you will include.
~Terry
Ernie,
Who is this “Drew” guy? You were always the best. And remember, I am a professional
Hello again bill, this Drew guy, is the best! he and I worked together back in the early 70′s and he went on to greatness… check him out at drewstruzan.com – Ernie
Dear Ernie,
I gathered he is the brightest star in your universe,but as you know there are many,many artists in all fields who are 99% as good as the Superstars and do not get due recognition. Stardom is largely other’s illusion’s.The real pleasure is in the doing,not the aftermath.
BTW, when I left our agency I went back to Architecture.Had great fun doing that.
Hi Ernie,
It’s been a long time! I have fond memories of staying up all night with you, as you met deadlines for your work. I lived above you at 509 2nd street in Park Slope Brooklyn NY. Hope you contact me as I have a picture of you and I that I would love to send you. Regards to Bonnie. Petergreenpower@gmail.com
Peter
Ernie, you’re Jesus Christ Superstar story was really interesting and kept me wanting to read on. You whet my appetite; and I found myself dying for more. Ernie, this story has hit close to my heart. You’re talent as an artist is a no-brainer, but for you to take your artistic talents and put such a colorful spin on it through your Back Story demonstrates what a gifted individual you truly are.
I am a huge fan of the opera and have also seen it performed in other countries and in many languages. I find it to be one of those fascinating stories, just like yours Ernie where outwardly incompatible people come together at the right place and time, and take a chance on each other in order to achieve something great.
As it turned out, Jesus Christ Superstar became a cultural phenomenon, and it must have been a real kick to have played a part in making that happen.
I want to thank you for sharing, the most beautiful written autobiography, of your accomplishments. The article is done in great taste, with color and documentation that catches your attention.