Paul Bommer – Mister Dark – G. M. Dark, the Illustrated Man – Of Cooger & Dark’s Pandemonium Shadow Show – Signed Limited Edition Screenprint

Artist: Paul Bommer
Title: Mister Dark – G. M. Dark, the Illustrated Man – Of Cooger & Dark’s Pandemonium Shadow Show
Medium: Original screenprint on 300 gsm Heritage paper
Colourway: Red and black
Edition: Limited edition of 75, individually numbered
This example: Number 54/75, signed by Paul Bommer
Sheet size: 50 × 70 cm (B2)
Condition: Fine
Stock number: 004239
Delivery: Supplied unframed and carefully rolled for dispatch

Description

An original, signed and numbered limited-edition screenprint by British artist and illustrator Paul Bommer, inspired by Ray Bradbury’s celebrated dark fantasy novel Something Wicked This Way Comes (1962).

Entitled G. M. Dark, the Illustrated Man – Of Cooger & Dark’s Pandemonium Shadow Show, the print depicts Mr Dark, the mysterious and sinister proprietor of the travelling carnival at the centre of Bradbury’s novel. This striking composition is printed in a dramatic red-and-black colourway on heavyweight 300 gsm Heritage paper.

This example is number 54 of an edition of just 75 prints and is signed by the artist.

Mr Dark, also known as the Illustrated Man, is one of Bradbury’s most memorable creations. His body is covered with elaborate tattoos representing the people and supernatural attractions under his influence. Bommer interprets this imagery through an intricately patterned costume, its surface alive with animals, fantastic creatures, decorative foliage and mysterious figures.

The central character wears an imposing red-and-black top hat, while his angular face and stark black outlines give the design an unsettling theatrical presence. The lettering, arranged around the figure in Bommer’s distinctive hand-drawn style, reinforces the atmosphere of an old-fashioned carnival poster.

The result combines the visual language of traditional popular prints, folk art and vintage fairground advertising with the darker themes of Bradbury’s fiction.

Ray Bradbury and Something Wicked This Way Comes

First published in 1962, Ray Bradbury’s Something Wicked This Way Comes is a landmark work of American fantasy and horror literature.

The novel follows two boys, Jim Nightshade and Will Halloway, whose lives are transformed when a mysterious travelling carnival arrives in their Illinois town. Behind the apparent excitement of its attractions lies a sinister enterprise capable of exploiting human fears, regrets and desires. At its centre stands Mr Dark, the Illustrated Man, whose extraordinary tattoos are intimately connected with the carnival’s supernatural powers. Bradbury’s novel explores the passage from childhood to adulthood, the fear of ageing, temptation and the struggle between good and evil. Its blend of poetic imagery, Gothic atmosphere and carnival mythology has made it one of the author’s most enduring works.

Bommer’s interpretation captures the menace and theatricality of Mr Dark while drawing upon the tradition of illustrated fairground posters and sideshow advertisements.

About Paul Bommer

Paul Bommer is a British artist and illustrator recognised for his distinctive combination of intricate linework, decorative pattern, historical references and narrative imagery. His work draws upon such varied influences as British folk art, traditional printmaking, heraldry, mythology, folklore, historical illustration and popular visual culture. Animals, fantastical figures, ornamental lettering and richly detailed compositions feature prominently in his designs. Bommer frequently incorporates references to literature, history and traditional storytelling, creating works that reward close examination. His approach is especially well suited to the imaginative world of Ray Bradbury, whose fiction similarly combines familiar settings with strange, unsettling and supernatural elements.

In this screenprint, Bommer brings together the visual exuberance of traditional decorative art and the sinister atmosphere of the travelling carnival to create a distinctive interpretation of one of Bradbury’s best-known characters.

Condition

Fine. An excellent example of this original screenprint, with strong, fresh colouring and clean presentation. The print is supplied unframed and will be carefully rolled for dispatch to ensure safe delivery.

Why Buy From Hornseys?

Established in 1976, Hornseys is an independent family-run bookseller and retailer based in the historic cathedral city of Ripon, North Yorkshire.

For fifty years, we have specialised in carefully selected books, prints, maps, illustrated works and distinctive gifts, combining established bookselling experience with a genuine interest in the artists, writers and subjects represented in our stock.

When purchasing from Hornseys, you can expect:

• Carefully selected stock: We choose items for their quality, originality, artistic interest and collecting appeal.
• Accurate descriptions: Original prints are individually examined, with edition numbers, signatures, materials and condition clearly described.
• The actual item photographed: The print offered is the signed and numbered example shown in our photographs.
• Professional packaging: Your print will be carefully rolled and securely packaged to protect it during transit.
• Free UK tracked delivery: Included with your purchase.
• 14-day unconditional returns: Buy with confidence, knowing that you can return your purchase within 14 days.