METALLICA - Master of Puppets 12" Vinyl Picture Disc

Education played a crucial role in shaping Brautigam's artistic prowess. He attended the prestigious School of Visual Arts in New York City, where he honed his skills and developed a unique style that seamlessly blended realism with vivid imagination. Immersed in the bustling artistic scene of the city, he drew inspiration from various sources, including contemporary art movements and the thriving music industry.

In the late 1970s, Brautigam's talent caught the attention of record labels seeking captivating artwork for their album covers. It was during this period that he embarked on a remarkable journey that would define his career and solidify his status as one of the most sought-after album cover artists of his time.

Brautigam's breakthrough came when he was approached by renowned heavy metal band Anthrax to create the cover art for their debut album, "Fistful of Metal" . The collaboration proved to be a tremendous success, and Brautigam's distinct style resonated with both the band and its fans. His ability to capture the essence of the music and translate it into visually striking images made him a natural choice for other heavy metal acts.

Throughout the 1980s, Brautigam painted over 3000 book and record cover works, leaving an indelible mark on the visual landscape of the era. His iconic album covers became synonymous with the rise of heavy metal music and captured the rebellious and edgy spirit of the genre. Bands such as Axe , Metallica , Motley Crue , and Vicious Rumors sought out his talent, entrusting him with the task of translating their music into captivating visual narratives.

Brautigam's ability to infuse his paintings with energy and emotion, while maintaining a strong sense of realism, set him apart from his contemporaries. His covers featured intricate details, vibrant colors, and powerful compositions that perfectly complemented the intensity of the music within.

Beyond the world of heavy metal, Brautigam's artistic range extended to various other genres, including rock, punk, and even classical music. He worked with an array of artists and bands, each collaboration an opportunity to explore new artistic directions and push the boundaries of his own creativity.

In addition to his album cover work, Brautigam also ventured into other artistic endeavors. He created intricate and thought-provoking illustrations for magazines, book covers, and promotional materials. His ability to capture the essence of a story or concept through a single image made him a highly sought-after illustrator in the publishing industry.

Brautigam's career spanned 35 years, during which he continued to evolve as an artist while staying true to his distinctive style. His work not only left an indelible impact on the music industry but also inspired a generation of artists who followed in his footsteps.

Today, Don Brautigam's legacy lives on through his iconic album covers and his continued influence on the world of art and design. His ability to fuse music and visual art, capturing the essence of a sound through a single image, remains unparalleled. Brautigam's contributions to the art world solidify his place as a true master painter and graphic artist, forever remembered for his unparalleled creativity and unwavering passion for his craft.

Born and raised in the United Kingdom, Robert Ellis developed an early passion for photography and music. In the 1970s, he embarked on his professional journey as a photographer, immersing himself in the music scene of the era. Ellis quickly established himself as a talented and versatile photographer, capturing the energy, spirit, and raw emotion of live performances.

Ellis's keen eye and ability to capture the essence of musicians in their element soon caught the attention of leading music-related publications. His work became highly sought after, and he started receiving assignments from prestigious magazines, including NME, Melody Maker, Kerrang, and Sounds. These publications were instrumental in shaping the music culture and disseminating information about emerging and established artists, making Ellis's photographs an integral part of the narrative.

Throughout his career, Robert Ellis had the opportunity to photograph numerous influential musicians, bands, and artists. From capturing intimate portraits of legendary figures such as David Bowie, Freddie Mercury, and Mick Jagger to documenting the explosive energy of performances by bands like Led Zeppelin, The Rolling Stones, and The Clash, Ellis consistently delivered stunning images that resonated with audiences worldwide.

One of Ellis's notable strengths as a photographer was his ability to establish a rapport with his subjects, putting them at ease and capturing their authentic selves. His photographs often reflected the deep connection he formed with the artists, revealing the vulnerability and passion behind their public personas. Whether in the chaos of a live concert or the stillness of a backstage moment, Ellis's images told stories that transcended the music itself, creating a visual legacy that would endure for years to come.