I’ve been reading classic Sci-Fi for a long time and Astounding being the birthplace for the Mount Rushmore of Sci-Fi writers (Heinlein, Campbell, Asimov, Hubbard) and many, many others has a huge place in the history of modern culture. In reading through an account of Campbell and his editing of Astounding it has brought to my attention the fantastic covers of these monthly “magazines” which is truly impressive. A collection of artwork, fantastical in nature, and as much a piece of culture as the works the magazine contained…
Yet, I cannot find an online collection that encompasses all of them, an exhibition of the artwork, actual copies of the originals, or even prints of them, despite many of them being absolutely perfect for the dorm room, office, studio, garage or other walls. These works are unique in their creepiness, political commentary, beauty, and future prognostication—see inclusion of Chesley Bonestell’s work gracing some of these covers as an example of the real high-end artwork that is present within these.
So…I’ve now gone about the task of collecting many of these works, scanning in the covers and making them available for prints. I will print them in either the full version with the Astounding cover graphics, date, and primary work/author or will crop down to just the artwork itself if desired. Each will appear “distressed” due to the covers not being in 100% mint condition but I think that often adds to their look and none are damaged or otherwise obscuring the artwork itself. Look to the “products” page here for current options and scanned artwork that is available. I am starting with the full 12 issue 1952 covers that are available for print/sale.
