BUILD DIARY
A permanent collection of original artworks by the legendary 'Radio Times' and 'Target Book' illustrator.
I am delighted to present a collection of published original artworks from several key books that Andrew has illustrated (such as the ground-breaking ‘Cybermen’ from 1988). In addition, Andrew has been commissioned to create new ‘illustrations’ especially for the museum (such that it acts on one level as ‘an illustrated walkthrough book’ to the worlds and history of the science –fiction genre).
To fans of classic ‘Doctor Who’, Andrew Skilleter will need scant introduction. Contributing more novelisation covers to the iconic and essential ‘Target’ book range than any other artist, Andrew became forever imbedded within the show’s visual history. During the 1980’s, he boldly created his own publishing imprint ‘Who Dares’ and proceeded to produce some of the most iconic and exciting ‘Doctor Who’ illustrations of the decade. Quite simply, Andrew Skilleter pushed the envelope of ‘traditional Who Art’ with a daring experiment of utilising (then) new techniques, coupled with fresh and invigorating compositional layouts. As a result of this, Andrew became the artist chosen to produce the ‘Doctor Who’ 20th anniversary ‘Radio Times’ cover and adorn an ambitious ‘Touring Exhibition’ trailer that would take original, screen-used Doctor Who props (some of which now reside here in this museum!) on a trip around the USA.
Whilst Andrew has a strong association with ‘Doctor Who’ (that continued beyond the 1980’s via his VHS and Virgin book covers in the 90’s and more recent publication of ‘The Who’s Who of Doctor Who’) it is important to remember that his rich body of work has encompassed a broad range of publications. His memorable and distinctive jacket covers have embellished the works of Ruth Rendell and the BBC’s C.S.Lewis audio-book range, to name but a few. For the purposes of the ‘Classic Science-Fiction Museum’, the focus remains on his work for SF. Not only will you find a few familiar images, but Andrew has very kindly provided concept sketches and ‘roughs’ that allow a unique insight into his creative process.
Andrew’s artwork can be found throughout the museum. As curator, I find the chance to pair his dynamic illustrations alongside screen-used props and costumes, a tantalising prospect. I hope that the different art-forms (paintings/drawings and theatrical props/costumes) will support each other and create a visually exciting way of telling the story of one of our most beloved science-fiction television programmes and the genre in overview.