Dungeons & Dragons, But Make It Neon: A Deep Dive into Retro 90s Fantasy Art

22 Jun 2024

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Remember those epic book covers with shimmering swords and mystical landscapes? That, my friends, is just a taste of the vibrant world of retro 90s fantasy art. It's a style that's been experiencing a serious resurgence lately, and for good reason! This isn't your grandma's Tolkien – although, let's be honest, we love that too – this is fantasy with an attitude, a dash of cyberpunk, and maybe a sprinkle of Lisa Frank magic thrown in for good measure.

So, what exactly makes this era of fantasy art so special? To understand, we need to travel back to a time when grunge was king, the internet was a baby, and fantasy was exploding in popularity. Think about it: this was the decade that gave us iconic films like "Labyrinth" and "The Dark Crystal," video games like "Final Fantasy VII" and "Myst," and let's not forget the unstoppable force that was "Magic: The Gathering." These weren't just forms of entertainment; they were gateways to fantastical worlds, and their visual language became synonymous with 90s fantasy.

One of the defining characteristics of this era is the bold use of color. Forget muted tones and realism – we're talking vibrant hues, neon accents, and an almost psychedelic approach to lighting. Artists weren't afraid to experiment, pushing the boundaries of traditional fantasy art and infusing it with a healthy dose of 90s cool. Think airbrushed gradients, impossible sunsets, and characters that looked like they could rock out with Guns N' Roses.

But it wasn't just about the visuals. This was also a time of immense creativity in terms of world-building and character design. Artists drew inspiration from a melting pot of sources, from classic mythology and folklore to science fiction, cyberpunk, and even the burgeoning rave culture. The result was a unique blend of the familiar and the futuristic, creating worlds that felt both nostalgic and ahead of their time.

Take, for example, the iconic artwork of Boris Vallejo and Julie Bell. Their muscular heroes and powerful heroines, often set against fantastical backdrops, epitomized the era's dynamic and often hyper-stylized aesthetic. Or consider the eerie, otherworldly landscapes of Brom, whose work on "Dungeons & Dragons" and other fantasy properties continues to captivate and inspire. These artists, along with many others, helped shape the visual language of 90s fantasy, and their influence can still be felt today.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Retro 90s Fantasy Art

Advantages	Disadvantages
Nostalgic and evocative of a specific era Visually striking and memorable Offers a sense of escapism and wonder	Can be seen as dated or kitschy by some Often relies on tropes that may feel clichéd May not appeal to those who prefer more modern or realistic art styles

Advantages

Disadvantages

Nostalgic and evocative of a specific era

Visually striking and memorable

Offers a sense of escapism and wonder

Can be seen as dated or kitschy by some

Often relies on tropes that may feel clichéd

May not appeal to those who prefer more modern or realistic art styles

Why is Retro 90s Fantasy Art Making a Comeback?

In a world saturated with digital art and hyperrealistic graphics, there's something refreshing about the raw energy and unbridled imagination of retro 90s fantasy art. It's a style that's not afraid to be bold, whimsical, and even a little bit cheesy, and that's precisely what makes it so endearing.

Moreover, this revival is driven by a sense of nostalgia for a simpler time, a time when fantasy was about escaping into worlds of pure imagination. In a world that often feels increasingly complex and uncertain, there's comfort and joy to be found in revisiting the vibrant, hopeful worlds of 90s fantasy.

So, whether you're a seasoned fantasy enthusiast or a newcomer looking to explore the genre's vibrant history, there's no denying the allure of retro 90s fantasy art. It's a style that continues to inspire, delight, and remind us of the boundless power of imagination. So, go ahead, embrace the neon, crank up the grunge, and let yourself be transported to a world where magic is real, heroes are ripped, and the possibilities are endless.