The author provides information about the inspirations for his fantasy art of dragons and discusses the process that he goes through, from the sketches to the final detailing, and includes never-before-seen art.

For the first time ever, a portfolio of illustrated work from the award-winning artist, John Howe, which reveals the breathtaking vision of one of the foremost fantasy artists in the world. Myth and Magic is arranged into six sections, which looks at the books by J.R.R. Tolkien that have inspired John, as well as a fascinating tour through the paintings that he has produced for some of the finest fantasy authors working today. From the beloved painting of Smaug which decorates The Hobbit, his numerous and bestselling calendar illustrations, the world famous "Gandalf" picture, which is synonymous with the HarperCollins one-volume edition of The Lord of the Rings, this large-format hardback will delight fans of Tolkien, and anyone who has been captured by the imagination of the artist who so brilliantly brings to life the literary vision of J.R.R. Tolkien.

Cover has a circular, plastic-covered opening.

“Complex . . . an atmosphere-filled adventure . . . with a fair quota of surprises . . . a winning combination of strong characters and colorful societies.”—Kirkus Reviews In the final book in the Tawny Man Trilogy, Fitz and the Fool are tested more severely than ever in a book the Monroe News-Star calls “a breathtaking ride from beginning to end.” FitzChivalry Farseer has become firmly ensconced in the queen’s court. Along with his mentor, Chade, and the simpleminded yet strongly skilled Thick, Fitz strives to aid Prince Dutiful on a quest that could secure peace with the Out Islands—and win Dutiful the hand of the Narcheska Elliania. The Narcheska has set the prince an unfathomable task: to behead a dragon trapped in ice on the isle of Aslevjal. Yet not all the clans of the Out Islands support their effort. Are there darker forces at work behind Elliania’s demand? Knowing that the Fool has foretold he will die on the island of ice, Fitz plots to leave his dearest friend behind. But fate cannot so easily be defied.

Medieval, Celtic, and Gothic dragons, along with sea dragons and fire dragons, are featured in an informative guide to the myths and legends of these powerful creatures with working sketches of the artist's creations and the techniques used to draw and paint them.

Create your own fantasy art with this comprehensive guidebook by the lead conceptual designer on The Lord of the RingsTM and The HobbitTM trilogies. Discover the creative processes and intriguing inspirations behind the work of John Howe – lead conceptual designer on The Lord of the RingsTM and The HobbitTM movie trilogies. Through step-by-step drawings and finished paintings, Howe reveals his artistic approach in action: from developing characters to creating atmospheric landscapes, extraordinary architecture and fantasy beasts. In this practical guide, Howe shares tips on everything from building a portfolio to book illustration, graphic novels and designing for the big screen. Develop your own personal style of fantasy art with help from the best in the business with this must-have book. Features a foreword by groundbreaking film director Terry Gilliam, and an afterword by Alan Lee, John’s partner on the conceptual design for The Lord of the RingsTM movie trilogy and Oscar-winning illustrator.

Dragon Art is a stunning survey of amazing contemporary fantasy artwork, specifically of dragons - that most popular of fantasy creatures. The inspirational foreword is by fantasy legend and Lord of the Rings film concept artist John Howe. The 'Masters of Dragon Art' section includes such favourites as Don Maitz and Bob Eggleton. A fascinating discussion of dragons and fantasy art runs throughout the book, alongside a large selection of the best work out there at the moment, which is interspersed with features presenting artists' works-in-progress, providing invaluable insight on technique. Dragon Art is an inspiration and a feast for the eyes.