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James Bama: American Realist by Brian M. Kane with Harlen Ellison and Len Leone
01/07/2007 . Source: Geoff Willmetts 
Pub: Flesk Publications. 160 page illustrated hardback. Price: $34.95 (US), ISBN: 978-0-9723758-8-7. Buy James Bama: American Realist in the USA - or Buy James Bama: American Realist in the UK  check out website: www.fleskpublications.com
A lot of people on this side of the pond, including my esteemed publisher, might not know the name James Bama, but I bet he's seen and probably admired his art somewhere down the line. I expect you have as well. Early in his career, James Bama painted the first promo for 'Star Trek' which ended up being used for its first paperback cover. It's a bit odd seeing jet blasts from all three sections of the Enterprise but not surprising as the first episode hadn't been aired when it was painted. Before that he did a lot of adventure illustrations with a convincing realistic flair.
Calling Bama a 'realist' painter puts his talent rather too mildly. When he paints from life he adds every detail and when he doesn't, he still adds every detail. I actually own a copy of the 'Dr. Jekyll And Mr. Hyde' novel seen here and was convinced for years it was someone made up and photographed. To make a painting that convincing to fool the eye shows a remarkable talent.
Depending on the needs of the work depended entirely on how much work was done. If you ever bought or still own any of the 60s Aurora monster model kits, then you own some of Bama's work.
If you own any of Bantam Books 'Doc Savage' books then you will certainly have samples of his work. All of his 67 'Doc Savage' covers are included here either in small or page size and it doesn't even touch the wealth of art Bama has created over the years for book covers and gallery work where he is now acknowledged as a fine arts artist.
Reading the text and Bama's own words it is clear that he goes for subject matter that he can do something with. This can be from politicians to actors to cowboys and Native Americans. There is a passion to his work that will have you stopping and looking a second time. This book is a real pleasure and if you like Bama's fantasy art then you'll love his real work.
GF Willmetts
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