Classic Comic Postcards: How to Colour and Send 20 Retro Comic Book Covers

Outline of the article --- H1: Classic Comic Postcards: 20 Cards to Colour H2: Introduction H3: What are classic comic postcards? H3: Why colour classic comic postcards? H3: How to colour classic comic postcards? H2: The history of classic comic postcards H3: The origins of comic postcards H3: The golden age of comic postcards H3: The decline and revival of comic postcards H2: The art of classic comic postcards H3: The genres and themes of classic comic postcards H3: The styles and techniques of classic comic postcard artists H3: The influence and legacy of classic comic postcards H2: The benefits of classic comic postcards H3: The fun and relaxation of colouring classic comic postcards H3: The creativity and expression of colouring classic comic postcards H3: The learning and appreciation of colouring classic comic postcards H2: Conclusion H2: FAQs --- # Classic Comic Postcards: 20 Cards to Colour ## Introduction Do you love comics? Do you love colouring? Do you love vintage art? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you will love classic comic postcards. These are postcards that feature comic book covers from the 1950s and beyond, with a variety of genres, themes, styles and techniques. They are not only beautiful and nostalgic, but also fun and relaxing to colour. In this article, we will explore what are classic comic postcards, why you should colour them, how to colour them, and more. ### What are classic comic postcards? Classic comic postcards are postcards that feature comic book covers from the 1950s and beyond. They are also known as the art of classic comics. They are inspired by the golden age of comic books, when comics were diverse, vibrant, imaginative and influential. They cover a range of genres and themes, such as science fiction, romance, crime, horror, war, humor, adventure and more. They showcase the styles and techniques of various comic book artists, such as Jack Kirby, Alex Toth, Steve Ditko, Wally Wood, Frank Frazetta and more. They are also collectible and valuable, as some of them are rare and hard to find. ### Why colour classic comic postcards? Colouring classic comic postcards is a great way to enjoy the art of classic comics in a new and interactive way. By adding your own colours to the black-and-white images, you can bring them to life and express your own creativity. You can also learn more about the history, culture and aesthetics of classic comics by studying the details and nuances of the original covers. Colouring classic comic postcards is also a relaxing and therapeutic activity that can help you reduce stress, improve mood, enhance focus and boost confidence. ### How to colour classic comic postcards? Colouring classic comic postcards is easy and fun. All you need are some coloured pencils or markers, a sharpener and an eraser. You can also use some reference books or websites to get some inspiration for your colour choices. Here are some tips on how to colour classic comic postcards: - Start with the main elements of the image, such as the characters, objects or backgrounds. Choose colours that match the mood, genre or theme of the cover. - Use different shades or tones of the same colour to create depth, contrast or highlights. For example, you can use darker colours for shadows or lighter colours for light sources. - Use complementary colours to create harmony or balance in your image. For example, you can use blue and orange, purple and yellow, or green and red. - Use different textures or strokes to create variety or interest in your image. For example, you can use smooth or rough strokes, dots or lines, or blend or layer colours. - Experiment with different combinations or effects to create your own style or expression. For example, you can use bright or muted colours, realistic or abstract colours, or warm or cool colours. ## The history of classic comic postcards Classic comic postcards are based on the comic book covers from the 1950s and beyond. To understand the art of classic comics, we need to understand the history of comic books and comic postcards. ### The origins of comic postcards Comic postcards are a form of illustrated postcards that feature humorous or satirical images and captions. They originated in the late 19th century, when postcards became a popular and cheap way of communication and entertainment. The first comic postcards were influenced by the political cartoons, caricatures and comic strips of the time. They often poked fun at social issues, current events, stereotypes or personalities. Some of the early comic postcard artists were John Tenniel, Thomas Nast, George Cruikshank and James Gillray. ### The golden age of comic postcards The golden age of comic postcards coincided with the golden age of comic books, which spanned from the late 1930s to the early 1950s. During this period, comic books became a mass medium that appealed to a wide audience of children and adults. They also diversified into various genres and themes, such as superheroes, science fiction, romance, crime, horror, war and more. Comic postcards followed suit, and featured comic book covers from various publishers, such as DC Comics, Marvel Comics, EC Comics, Dell Comics and more. They also showcased the styles and techniques of various comic book artists, such as Jack Kirby, Alex Toth, Steve Ditko, Wally Wood, Frank Frazetta and more. Some of the most popular and iconic comic postcards from this era are: - Action Comics #1 (1938), featuring the first appearance of Superman - Detective Comics #27 (1939), featuring the first appearance of Batman - Captain America Comics #1 (1941), featuring the first appearance of Captain America - Wonder Woman #1 (1942), featuring the first appearance of Wonder Woman - Amazing Fantasy #15 (1962), featuring the first appearance of Spider-Man - Fantastic Four #1 (1961), featuring the first appearance of the Fantastic Four - Tales from the Crypt #20 (1950), featuring a classic horror cover by Johnny Craig - Weird Science #13 (1950), featuring a classic science fiction cover by Wally Wood - Young Romance #1 (1947), featuring a classic romance cover by Jack Kirby ### The decline and revival of comic postcards The decline of comic postcards coincided with the decline of comic books, which occurred in the mid to late 1950s. This was due to several factors, such as: - The rise of television as a competing form of entertainment - The public backlash against comics as a corrupting influence on youth - The introduction of the Comics Code Authority, a self-regulatory body that imposed strict censorship on comics - The emergence of new trends and tastes in popular culture As a result, comic books lost their popularity and diversity, and many publishers and artists went out of business or switched to other genres or media. Comic postcards also became less common and less varied, as they reflected the changes in the comic book industry. However, comic postcards did not disappear completely. They experienced a revival in the 1970s and 1980s, when comics regained their popularity and diversity with the rise of underground comics, alternative comics and graphic novels. These comics challenged the conventions and limitations of mainstream comics, and explored new genres, themes, styles and techniques. Comic postcards also followed suit, and featured comic book covers from various publishers, such as Fantagraphics Books, Drawn & Quarterly, Dark Horse Comics and more. They also showcased the styles and techniques of various comic book artists, such as Robert Crumb, Art Spiegelman, Will Eisner, Frank Miller and more. Some of the most popular and influential comic postcards from this era are: - Zap Comix #1 (1968), featuring an underground comix cover by Robert Crumb - Maus #1 (1980), featuring an alternative comix cover by Art Spiegelman - A Contract with God (1978), featuring a graphic novel cover by Will Eisner - The Dark Knight Returns #1 (1986), featuring a superhero cover by Frank Miller - Watchmen #1 (1986), featuring a superhero cover by Dave Gibbons ## The art of classic comic postcards Classic comic postcards are not only historical artifacts, but also artistic expressions. They showcase the genres and themes, styles and techniques, influence and legacy of classic comics. ### The genres and themes of classic comic postcards ### The genres and themes of classic comic postcards Classic comic postcards cover a wide range of genres and themes that reflect the interests, fantasies, fears and values of the society and culture of their time. Some of the most common and popular genres and themes are: - Science fiction: This genre explores the possibilities and consequences of science, technology, innovation and discovery. It often features futuristic settings, alien worlds, space travel, time travel, robots, mutants and more. Some examples of science fiction comic postcards are Weird Science, Strange Adventures, Mystery in Space and Amazing Stories. - Romance: This genre focuses on the emotional and romantic relationships between characters. It often features love triangles, conflicts, misunderstandings, betrayals, reconciliations and happy endings. Some examples of romance comic postcards are Young Romance, Love Confessions, Heart Throbs and True Love Stories. - Crime: This genre depicts the actions and motivations of criminals, law enforcers, detectives and victims. It often features violence, suspense, mystery, justice and morality. Some examples of crime comic postcards are Crime Does Not Pay, Crime SuspenStories, Detective Comics and Crime and Punishment. - Horror: This genre evokes fear, terror, dread and disgust in the readers. It often features supernatural creatures, monsters, ghosts, zombies, vampires and more. Some examples of horror comic postcards are Tales from the Crypt, The Vault of Horror, The Haunt of Fear and Weird Tales. - War: This genre portrays the realities and horrors of war and its impact on soldiers and civilians. It often features battles, heroism, sacrifice, survival and patriotism. Some examples of war comic postcards are Frontline Combat, Two-Fisted Tales, Our Army at War and Sgt. Rock. - Humor: This genre aims to amuse and entertain the readers with jokes, gags, satire and parody. It often features absurd situations, exaggerated characters, slapstick comedy and wordplay. Some examples of humor comic postcards are Mad Magazine, Plop!, The Funnies and Archie. ## The styles and techniques of classic comic postcard artists Classic comic postcard artists use various styles and techniques to create their images and convey their messages. Some of the most common and distinctive styles and techniques are: - Line art: This is a style that uses lines to define shapes, forms and details. It can be done with pens, pencils or brushes. It can be simple or complex, realistic or stylized. Some examples of line art comic postcard artists are Jack Kirby (known for his dynamic and energetic lines), Steve Ditko (known for his intricate and expressive lines) and Alex Toth (known for his clean and elegant lines). - Colouring: This is a technique that adds colours to the black-and-white line art. It can be done with paints, markers, pencils or digital tools. It can be simple or complex, realistic or stylized. Some examples of colouring comic postcard artists are Dave Stewart (known for his rich and atmospheric colours), Laura Martin (known for her vibrant and expressive colours) and Matt Hollingsworth (known for his muted and moody colours). - Lettering: This is a technique that adds words to the images, such as dialogue, narration, sound effects or titles. It can be done with pens, brushes or fonts. It can be legible or decorative, plain or fancy. Some examples of lettering comic postcard artists are Todd Klein (known for his versatile and elegant lettering), Richard Starkings (known for his innovative and dynamic lettering) and John Workman (known for his bold and distinctive lettering). - Layout: This is a technique that arranges the images and words on the page, such as panels, gutters, balloons or captions. It can be done with rulers, grids or templates. It can be regular or irregular, symmetrical or asymmetrical. Some examples of layout comic postcard artists are Will Eisner (known for his inventive and cinematic layouts), Frank Miller (known for his dramatic and dynamic layouts) and Dave McKean (known for his experimental and collage-like layouts). ## The influence and legacy of classic comic postcards Classic comic postcards are not only artistic expressions, but also cultural influences. They have inspired and influenced generations of readers, artists, writers and creators in various fields and media. ### The influence of classic comic postcards on readers Classic comic postcards have entertained and educated millions of readers around the world. They have sparked their imagination, curiosity, creativity and passion. They have also shaped their values, beliefs, opinions and tastes. Some of the ways that classic comic postcards have influenced readers are: - They have introduced them to new genres, themes, styles and techniques of comics and art. - They have exposed them to different cultures, histories, perspectives and experiences. - They have challenged them to think critically, analytically and creatively. - They have encouraged them to express themselves, communicate and collaborate. - They have motivated them to collect, preserve and share classic comics. ### The influence of classic comic postcards on artists Classic comic postcards have inspired and influenced countless artists in various fields and media. They have provided them with models, references, examples and lessons. They have also stimulated their innovation, experimentation, adaptation and transformation. Some of the ways that classic comic postcards have influenced artists are: - They have taught them the fundamentals and principles of comics and art. - They have shown them the possibilities and potentialities of comics and art. - They have challenged them to develop their own voice, style and expression. - They have encouraged them to explore new genres, themes, styles and techniques. - They have motivated them to create new comics, art and media. ## The benefits of classic comic postcards but also personal benefits. They offer various advantages and rewards to the readers, artists and creators who engage with them. ### The fun and relaxation of colouring classic comic postcards Colouring classic comic postcards is a fun and relaxing activity that can provide enjoyment and satisfaction. It can also help you cope with stress, anxiety, depression and other mental health issues. Some of the ways that colouring classic comic postcards can benefit you are: - It can calm your brain and quiet your mind by focusing on the simple task of colouring. - It can induce a meditative state by suspending your inner dialogue and removing negative thoughts and emotions. - It can improve your mood by releasing endorphins, dopamine and serotonin, which are neurotransmitters that make you feel happy and relaxed. - It can improve your sleep by keeping electronics out of the bedroom and allowing your melatonin level to release naturally. ### The creativity and expression of colouring classic comic postcards Colouring classic comic postcards is a creative and expressive activity that can stimulate your imagination, curiosity, creativity and passion. It can also help you develop your skills, talents, style and voice as an artist or creator. Some of the ways that colouring classic comic postcards can benefit you are: - It can enhance your brain function by activating different parts of your cerebral hemispheres, such as logic, creativity, focus and concentration. - It can improve your motor skills by honing your hand-eye coordination, fine motor skills and dexterity. - It can improve your artistic skills by teaching you the fundamentals and principles of comics and art, such as line art, colouring, lettering and layout. - It can improve your artistic expression by enabling you to experiment with different genres, themes, styles and techniques, and to develop your own voice, style and expression. ### The learning and appreciation of colouring classic comic postcards Colouring classic comic postcards is a learning and appreciative activity that can educate you about the history, culture and aesthetics of classic comics. It can also help you appreciate the artistry, craftsmanship, influence and legacy of classic comics. Some of the ways that colouring classic comic postcards can benefit you are: - It can expose you to new genres, themes, styles and techniques of comics and art that you may not be familiar with or interested in. - It can teach you about the origins, development, diversity and evolution of comics as a form of sequential art, communication and entertainment. - It can show you the possibilities and potentialities of comics as a medium for storytelling, expression and innovation. - It can inspire you to create your own comics or other forms of art or media based on or influenced by classic comics. ## Conclusion styles and techniques, influence and legacy of classic comics. They are also a source of fun and relaxation, creativity and expression, learning and appreciation for the readers, artists and creators who engage with them. Colouring classic comic postcards is a great way to enjoy the art of classic comics in a new and interactive way. By adding your own colours to the black-and-white images, you can bring them to life and express your own creativity. You can also learn more about the history, culture and aesthetics of classic comics by studying the details and nuances of the original covers. Whether you are a fan of classic comics or not, you will find something to love and appreciate in classic comic postcards. ## FAQs Here are some frequently asked questions about classic comic postcards: - Where can I buy classic comic postcards? You can buy classic comic postcards from various online or physical stores that sell comics, books, art or collectibles. You can also find them on online platforms such as eBay or Amazon. Some examples of classic comic postcard books are: - The Art of Classic Comics: 100 Postcards from the Fabulous 1950s - The Art of Vintage DC Comics: 100 Postcards - The Art of Vintage Marvel: 100 Collectible Postcards - The Art of Horror Movies: An Illustrated History - How can I preserve and display classic comic postcards? You can preserve and display classic comic postcards by using archival materials and methods that protect them from damage, fading or deterioration. Some tips are: - Store them in acid-free plastic sleeves or envelopes that fit their size. - Keep them away from direct sunlight, heat, moisture or dust. - Frame them with UV-resistant glass or acrylic and acid-free matting and backing. - Hang them on a wall that is not exposed to direct sunlight or heat sources. - How can I share classic comic postcards with others? You can share classic comic postcards with others by using various methods and platforms that allow you to showcase your collection, exchange your duplicates or discover new ones. Some ways are: - Join online communities or forums that are dedicated to classic comics or postcards. - Participate in online or physical events or conventions that feature classic comics or postcards. - Create a blog or social media account that showcases your classic comic postcard collection. - Send them as gifts or greetings to your friends or family who appreciate classic comics or postcards. - How can I create my own classic comic postcards? You can create your own classic comic postcards by using various tools and resources that enable you to design, draw, colour and print your own images and words. Some steps are: - Choose a genre, t