Outer Space Art


During the 1950s and through the 1970s, a Tennessean by the name of Robert E. Gilbert created literally hundreds of science fiction art pieces that saw publication in science fiction magazines. Due to the limited printing techniques of these magazines, most of his works were done in pen and ink. But he also did a significant amount of work in oils, pastels and even watercolors. Additionally, he did a large body of art that was not part of the science fiction genre. His total portfolio spans from the 1940 through the 1980s.

One of the hallmarks of his works was the eeriness with which he could visualize aliens or outer space planets or landscapes. Even humans were often depicted as weird and other-worldly. The minute detail with which he accomplished his works, notably his pen-and-ink drawings, was unprecedented for its time.

Gilbert passed away in 1993, leaving a body of work of over 400 pieces in his estate. Of those works about 150 of them have a science fiction theme. He often signed his work simply REG. His entire collection has been purchased by a company called Artisans and is being sold via a website that is run by the company. Many of his works can be see on the site, and a quick glance will lead you to appreciate the artistic skill of REG.