Brian Walker: Cartoons and comic strips are a unique medium of artistic expression. They can evoke laughter, tell stories, and convey social and political messages. Brian Walker was one artist who significantly impacted this world of visual storytelling. Born on March 22, 1926, in Brislington, Somerset, Brian Walker’s artistic journey spanned over 50 years and left an indelible mark on comics, magazines, and books.

Brian Walker

(b. 22 March 1926, UK) United Kingdom

Notable Work: ‘Scream Inn’, ‘Smasher’, ‘I Spy’

Birth Date: 22 March 1926

Birth Place: Brislington, Bristol, UK

Death Date: June 2020 (aged 94)

Nationality: United Kingdom

Occupation: Cartoonist, Illustrator

Known For: Comics in Beano, Dandy, Whizzer and Chips, Punch

Notable Creations: ‘Scream Inn’, ‘Smasher’, ‘I Spy’

Education: West of England College of Art

Spouse: Rosemary Beer (m. 1961)

Children: Two daughters

Relatives: Five grandchildren, five great-grandchildren

Biography:

Brian Walker was a British cartoonist and illustrator known for his work in comics like Beano, Dandy, Whizzer and Chips, and humor publications such as Punch. He was born on 22 March 1926 in Brislington, Somerset, UK. Walker’s career began when he enrolled in a correspondence art course with Pitman’s Press at the age of 14. He joined the Bristol Evening World at 16, where he drew cartoons and war maps. He served in the RAF from 1944 to 1947 and later studied at the West of England College of Art. In 1961, he married Rosemary Beer and had two daughters.

Walker’s work spanned over 50 years and appeared in various comics and magazines. He contributed to the success of comics like ‘Smasher’ in The Dandy and ‘I Spy’ in Sparky. One of his most popular creations was ‘Scream Inn,’ which ran for several years in Shiver & Shake and Whoopee. He also illustrated articles on rural issues and history for The Countryman magazine. Throughout his career, he produced over 5,400 pages of comic strips and illustrations. Brian Walker passed away in Glastonbury in June 2020 at the age of 94.

Early Beginnings

Brian Walker’s artistic journey commenced at an early age. Enrolling in a correspondence art course with Pitman’s Press at 14, he displayed a passion and talent for the visual arts. He was introduced to the professional art world when he joined the Bristol Evening World at 16. Here, he honed his skills, creating cartoons and war maps.

However, his journey took an unexpected turn when he was called up to serve in the Royal Air Force (RAF) from 1944 to 1947. Despite the interruption in his studies, he returned to Bristol after World War II and continued his pursuit of art. He attended the West of England College of Art and earned diplomas in illustration and design in 1949.

The 1950s: A Time of Exploration

The early 1950s were marked by a period of exploration for Brian Walker. He ventured into the professional art world after a 2,000-mile cycling tour of Europe. His illustrated articles about his travels were published in Cycling Weekly, leading to commissions from magazines like Farmers Weekly and the esteemed Punch magazine.

The decision to move to Hinton Blewett in the Mendip Hills of Somerset in 1952 was pivotal. It began an artistic journey to see Brian establish a lasting connection with this picturesque part of England. His cottage in Hinton Blewett would be his home and studio for the rest of his life.

Comic Strips: The Bread and Butter

The 1960s marked a vibrant period for boys’ weekly comics, and it was during this time that Brian Walker established himself as a comic artist. His initial foray into this world was with DC Thomson, where he contributed to iconic strips like the ‘Smasher’ in The Dandy and ‘I Spy’ in Sparky. These strips captured the imagination of young readers and solidified Brian’s position in the world of comics.

As technical and social changes began to reshape the comics market, Brian’s adaptability and artistic prowess led him to work for IPC (International Publishing Corporation), specifically on strips like ‘Three Story Stan’ and ‘Wizards Anonymous’ for Whizzer & Chips, ‘Fun Fear’ and ‘Ghost Train’ for Whoopee!, ‘Misery Buckets,’ ‘Box-a-Tricks,’ and ‘Our Gran’ for Buster.

One of Brian Walker’s most famous works was ‘Scream Inn,’ a comic strip from 1973 to 1979. Initially published in Shiver & Shake, this series showcased Brian’s ability to create an eerie and engaging atmosphere. The strip revolved around an innkeeper, a family of ghosts, and an old inn setting, where brave souls attempted to stay in the haunted bedroom for a prize of a million pounds, only to be comically chased out each week. ‘Scream Inn’ became a massive hit, inspiring a board game adaptation by Denys Fisher in 1974.

Brian Walker worked on many comics and stories in a career spanning over five decades. His versatility and knack for storytelling through art made him a sought-after artist.

The Countryman Connection

Brian Walker’s association with The Countryman was particularly remarkable. From 1970 onwards, it seemed like there was hardly an issue of the magazine to which he did not contribute. The Countryman, a publication focused on rural life, history, and culture, provided a platform for Brian to illustrate articles related to rural issues and short stories.

His illustrations in The Countryman were a testament to his ability to capture the essence of rural life and convey it to readers through his art. His connection with the magazine continued for many years, solidifying his place as an artist with a deep appreciation for the countryside.

Books and Beyond

Apart from his work in comics and magazines, Brian Walker’s artistic talent extended to over 80 books. One notable collaboration was with writer George Haines on the book ‘How To Be a Motorist And Stay Happy’ in 1967. The book’s success led to Brian’s association with DC Thomson, where he lent his artistic skills to various projects.

Some books he illustrated included ‘Landscape With Solitary Figure’ by Colin Willock and ‘A Countryman’s Lot’ by Max Hardcastle, among others. His contributions to these books added a visual dimension to the storytelling and made them all the more engaging.

Life Beyond Art

Beyond his artistic pursuits, Brian Walker was a man of many interests and talents. An ardent cyclist throughout his life, he was an avid tuba player mentored by renowned musician Acker Bilk. This connection led to his involvement with musical groups like the Chew Valley Jazz Band and collaborations with Adge Cutler and the Wurzels.

In 1961, Brian Walker married Rosemary Beer, a laboratory assistant. Their partnership brought two daughters, Jo Burgess and Sarah, five grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.

Farewell to a Legend

Brian Walker’s artistic journey was not without challenges. In 2009, he retired as Alzheimer’s began to affect his memory, marking the end of a remarkable era in comics and illustration. His passing in June 2020 was a moment of reflection for a world that his creativity and talent had touched.

Brian Walker’s legacy endures in the comic strips, illustrations, and books that continue to captivate readers of all ages. His ability to bring humor, life, and atmosphere to his art remains an inspiration for aspiring artists and a cherished memory for those who enjoyed his work over the decades.

The world of art and storytelling is richer for having had Brian Walker as a part of it, and his contributions will continue to be celebrated for generations.

FAQs about Brian Walker: A British Cartoonist and Illustrator

1. Who was Brian Walker?

Brian Walker was a British cartoonist and illustrator known for his work in comics such as Beano, The Dandy, Whizzer, and Chips, as well as humor publications like Punch and serious magazines like The Countryman. He was born on March 22, 1926, in Brislington, Somerset, UK.

2. What were some of Brian Walker’s notable works?

Brian Walker’s notable works included the “Smasher” strip in The Dandy, “I Spy” in Sparky, and “Scream Inn” in Shiver and Shake and later in Whoopee. He also contributed to many other comic strips and illustrations during his career.

3. How did Brian Walker’s artistic career begin?

Brian Walker’s artistic career began when he applied for an art job at the Bristol Evening World at sixteen. He drew war maps and cartoons for the newspaper and later pursued formal art studies at the West of England College of Art.

4. What publications and books did Brian Walker contribute to?

Brian Walker’s work appeared in various comics, including Beano, The Dandy, Whizzer, and Chips. He also contributed to magazines like Punch and The Countryman. Throughout his career, he illustrated more than 80 books.

5. How long did Brian Walker’s career span?

Brian Walker’s career spanned over 50 years, during which he produced a significant body of work in various forms, such as comic strips and illustrations.

6. When did Brian Walker retire from his career?

Brian Walker retired from his career in 2009. His retirement was influenced by the onset of Alzheimer’s disease, which began to affect his memory.

7. Did Brian Walker have any other interests or talents besides illustration?

Yes, Brian Walker was a keen cyclist throughout his life. He also played the tuba and was taught by musician Acker Bilk. He played the tuba in several jazz bands and groups in Somerset.

8. How did Brian Walker’s career evolve over the years?

Brian Walker’s career evolved from drawing war maps and gag cartoons in his early years to becoming a prolific comic artist and illustrator, contributing to various comics and magazines. He later branched into book and advertising illustration as well.

9. What were some key characteristics of Brian Walker’s cartooning style?

Artists like Charlie Pease, John Jukes, and Reg Parlett influenced Brian Walker’s cartoon style. He was known for his versatility and the ability to create atmosphere, architectural settings, and complex action effects.