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95-027 "Start Spreadin' the News"
1995, Acrylic on Illustration Board

Painted in 1995 when word of the comet Hale Bopp's imminent arrival began to spread, this was an attempt to set the comet in context with familiar landmarks. I have never seen the New York skyline up close, and frankly I was intimidated with the challenge of capturing the power and majesty of a city known the world around as a symbol of industry and sheer daring. Many years later, in the winter of 2001, I happened on the illustration again, and found the image a little shocking, and of course rather sad. Still, there is an odd magic about the piece; the stars are still there, but the comet is long gone. So are some other things. But the city didn't used to be there at all - we willed it into being, with a lot of hard work. I do not doubt for a moment the stars - and other, future comets - will smile down onto a skyline that will be prouder, taller, and certainly not sleeping.

Chris Butler


Copyright 1994-2003 by Chris Butler
More of Chris Butler's art can be viewed at Novagraphics Space Art.