This one is a bit unusual for the PopCult Gift Guide. It’s a pre-order for a book that is supposed to be delivered in mid-to-late December, but with printing and shipping variables being what they are, there’s an element of gambling if you want to give it as a gift. Update: The book will NOT arrive by Christmas, but the publisher has a nice gift voucher that can be can emailed to anyone who needs it for a gift. Books will be shipped to buyers first week of January.
Having said that, this is a pretty impressive book, and if you have an automotive enthusiast of a certain age, or someone who appreciates classic magazine cartooning on your holiday list, this is a pretty sharp surprise for them.
The first limited edition of Stroker. The Artistic Works of Tom Medley is now available for pre-order. Books will be shipped the first week of 2017. But remember, initial printing is a small press-run Slipcase Limited edition!
The exquisitely designed 240-page table-top book (12”x12”) features more than 270 illustrations and photographs, showcasing the work of the famed Hot Rod magazine cartoonist, Tom Medley, who joined the staff on issue #2 in February 1948.
Stroker reviews Medley’s seven decades as an artist, including an insightful biography. The book features illustrated letters home during World War Two; drawings from the 78th Infantry Division Lightning newspaper, including “Fearless Freddy Flash;” legendary character “Stroker McGurk” in Hot Rod magazine; character “Flat Out Snodgrass” in Cycling magazine; plus automotive cutaway illustrations, spot cartoons, logos, t-shirt designs, holiday cards, and much, much more.
In addition to reproductions of the finished art, the book also shows numerous original art boards, as well as rough sketches that show the creative process used by Medley.
A limited number of slipcase editions will be printed. This is a must-have for any hot rod or cartoon enthusiast. It’s a bit pricey, but it could well be the perfect gift for that certain person. You can only pre-order it from the website now for $65. Your PopCulteer is tempted to pull the trigger on one for himself.
Rudy, wow. Gary Medley here, author of the above book. How on earth did you learn about my father’s art book? Update: The book will NOT arrive by Christmas, but I have a nice gift voucher I can email anyone who needs it for a gift. Books will be shipped to buyers first week of January.