Ned Kelly art back from dead
NEW BOOK REVIVES COMICS
THE work of comic artist Monty Wedd has been revived in a newly released book published by Margate resident Nat Karmichael.
Ned Kelly, Narrated and Illustrated by Monty Wedd features the late artist's illustrated history of the legendary bushranger.
The comic strip was commissioned to coincide with the release of Mick Jagger's 1970 film Ned Kelly.
But what started as a limited 36-week run in the Sunday papers soon took on a life of its own.
"The more (Monty) investigated, the more he realised there was a bigger story there that (the) movie just wasn't touching and he felt `let's do a historically accurate depiction of his life'," Mr Karmichael said.
Wedd meticulously researched the comic strip's subject matter, visiting court houses where Kelly had been and using photos to inform his illustrations.
Mr Karmichael said the publication of Wedd's work through the new book had been driven by a desire to preserve his legacy.
"And it was a chance for people that were passionate about not only Ned Kelly, but also Monty's craft - his comic strip art - to be able to see the glorious detail he had in his artwork," he added.
The book was compiled with the support of Wedd's son, Justin.
Ned Kelly, Narrated and Illustrated by Monty Wedd retails for $60 and is available from the Margate Post Office, at selected book-stores and online at comicoz.com/store.