Context:

Jack Katz, a renowned comic-book artist and writer, is celebrated for his groundbreaking work, 'The First Kingdom,' a 768-page graphic novel series published over twelve years starting in 1974. This epic, inspired by Homer’s 'Iliad' and 'Odyssey,' explores humanity's survival and migration into space following a nuclear apocalypse. Katz's intricate and detailed illustrations embody the counterculture spirit of the 1960s and '70s, contributing to his reputation as a visionary in the comic book industry. Despite a challenging early career, his dedication to artistic integrity and storytelling set him apart, leading to 'The First Kingdom's' recognition as a monumental achievement in modern comic history. Katz continued to create and teach after completing his magnum opus, leaving behind a legacy that includes unpublished works and influential contributions to graphic storytelling.

Dive Deeper:

• Jack Katz, known for his magnum opus 'The First Kingdom,' significantly contributed to the rise of long-form graphic novels with his work spanning over a dozen years, starting in 1974. This series was a blend of fantasy and science fiction, featuring philosophical themes and intricate illustrations that captured the spirit of the underground comics scene.

• 'The First Kingdom' begins after a nuclear apocalypse, depicting small human bands surviving among fantastical creatures, and evolves into a narrative about mankind's space migration and galactic battles, inspired by the epic structure of Homer's 'Iliad' and 'Odyssey.' Katz's work is characterized by its detailed and lavish illustrations, reflecting his obsessive attention to detail and commitment to artistic excellence.

• Katz's early career in comics involved working with major publishers and figures like Stan Lee, but he often felt constrained by the industry's commercial limitations. His dissatisfaction with the factory-like environment of comic production and his meticulous approach to illustration sometimes led to conflicts with editors and deadlines.

• Despite his initial struggles, Katz's determination and unique vision eventually earned him recognition as a maverick genius, with 'The First Kingdom' praised by legends like Will Eisner and Jerry Siegel as a remarkable creative achievement. Katz's narrative and artistic style broke new ground in the graphic novel genre, influencing future generations of comic artists.

• Beyond 'The First Kingdom,' Katz continued to explore art through painting, teaching, and publishing works on anatomy and sketches. In 2013, he began working on a follow-up graphic novel, 'Beyond the Beyond,' which remains unpublished but showcases his lifelong commitment to storytelling inspired by dreams and personal vision.