Evelyn Carter
Shane Foley (born 1957) is a celebrated Australian comic book artist, illustrator, and storyteller who has carved a distinctive path in the world of graphic art. Best known for his extensive work on The Phantom published by Frew Publications, Foley has made significant contributions to Australian comic art over the past several decades. With a love for traditional illustration techniques and a deep passion for narrative-driven visual storytelling, Foley’s work spans comic strips, full-length stories, editorial illustration, gallery exhibitions, and community-based projects. Once a long-serving paramedic, Foley transitioned into a full-time creative career, becoming one of the leading figures in contemporary Australian comic art.
Infobox: Shane Foley
| Name | Shane Foley |
|---|---|
| Born | 1957 |
| Place of Birth | Portland, Victoria, Australia |
| Nationality | Australian |
| Occupation | Comic Book Artist, Illustrator, Former Paramedic |
| Known For | The Phantom, The Saga of Shakah-Rune, Dark Nebula |
| Years Active | 1990s–present |
| Education | ICS Correspondence Art Course (Diploma) |
| Primary Residence | Bundaberg, Queensland, Australia |
| Artistic Influences | Jack Kirby, John Buscema |
Early Life and Artistic Beginnings
Born in Portland, Victoria, in 1957, Shane Foley spent the majority of his formative years in Maroochydore, Queensland, where his family settled in 1966. From a young age, Foley displayed a strong inclination toward drawing. His artistic journey began with the chance discovery of a worn-out Phantom comic during a family holiday, found tucked under a caravan seat. That serendipitous encounter left a profound impact on him—one that would shape his life’s direction.
He quickly became an avid reader of classic comics, devouring black-and-white reprints of DC and Marvel comics available in Australia. Alongside Hergé’s Tintin, these visual stories fostered his love for comic art. It was the dynamic visuals and storytelling of Marvel’s golden era that truly captured his imagination, especially the vibrant energy of Jack Kirby’s illustrations and the expressive anatomy of John Buscema’s figures.
Self-Taught and Driven by Passion
Although Foley was drawn to art, he chose not to study it formally in school. Disheartened by curriculum that focused more on craftwork than drawing—such as potato prints and textile projects—he decided to pursue art on his own terms. Despite briefly considering enrolling in an art college while working in a bank, he never made the leap. Instead, he honed his skills independently, eventually completing a diploma from the ICS Correspondence Art Course.
While working full-time as an ambulance officer in Bundaberg for over three decades, Foley continued drawing in his spare time. His off-hours were filled with sketching and the study of comic storytelling. Foley never lost his love for what he calls “graphic storytelling”—the blend of visual art and narrative structure that defines comic books.
Early Publications and Contributions
Foley began making a name for himself in the Australian comic scene during the early 1990s. His work appeared in influential local publications such as Dark Nebula, Southern Aurora Presents, and Australian War Stories. These early experiences helped him establish connections within the industry and allowed him to experiment with styles and genres.
Between 2004 and 2006, Foley wrote and illustrated a four-page monthly serial titled The Saga of Shakah-Rune for Krash Magazine, a fantasy adventure with strong mythological themes. Beyond comics, he applied his skills to various creative projects: illustrating children’s stories for church bulletins, producing community art for local government initiatives, and even helping educate youth about recycling through his character Reggie the Recycling Turtle.
In 2013, Foley was invited to participate in Bundaberg’s post-flood Australia Day 2 celebrations, where he live-sketched portraits of emergency responders such as firefighters, ambulance officers, and volunteers. The five-hour event allowed him to publicly celebrate the everyday heroes of his community.
Breakthrough with The Phantom
Foley’s professional relationship with The Phantom began in 2016. Disappointed by a poorly designed comic cover he had come across, he decided to recreate it and submit his version to Frew Publications. Impressed by his work, the publishers sent him a Swedish-language PDF of a story. Despite not understanding the text, Foley selected an image and created a compelling cover that led to further assignments.
Since then, Foley has illustrated more than 500 pages and over a dozen covers for The Phantom. He became an integral part of one of the longest-running comic series in the world. Created by Lee Falk in 1936, The Phantom was the first costumed superhero and remains a significant part of comic history.
For Foley, the character’s moral clarity is part of its timeless appeal. In contrast to modern superheroes who often embody grey moralities, The Phantom represents integrity, justice, and compassion. Foley often features the hero alongside lesser-known Australian superheroes, blending global legacy with local flavor.
Exhibitions and Artistic Style
Foley’s wife played a key role in elevating his artwork from comic pages to gallery walls. In 2016, he held his first solo exhibition, Outcasts and Otherkind, at the Bundaberg Regional Gallery. It featured largely black-and-white works in his signature comic style. Encouraged by the public reception, Foley continued to participate in local art events such as Woodgate’s Arts in Spring and shows in Maryborough and Hervey Bay.
Foley maintains a traditional approach to illustration. He sketches on paper, inks with brush and pen, and uses correction fluid or pasted overlays for edits. Although he has begun using digital tools for coloring and lettering, he staunchly preserves the tactile, physical aspect of his work. Each original piece is archived carefully—there are no entirely digital creations in his portfolio.
Legacy, Teaching, and Current Projects
After retiring from paramedic duties, Foley now devotes his full attention to art. He contributes illustrations and cover work to American publications like Alter Ego and The Jack Kirby Collector, which focus on the history and celebration of comic art.
He continues to write and illustrate The Phantom for Frew Publications, collaborating on new stories while paying homage to the original tone and spirit of the series. He has also recently been recruited to contribute to new stories for the Australian superhero series Dark Nebula, with fresh installments released as recently as 2022.
Foley often emphasizes that comic illustration is not an exclusive gift but a learnable craft. He encourages aspiring artists to develop their skills through practice and passion. “Comic work isn’t magic,” he says. “It’s a skill and a trade you learn, and anyone who’s interested can have a go.”
Shane Foley exemplifies the power of dedication and creative vision. From humble beginnings and self-guided training, he rose to become a pillar in Australian comic storytelling. His journey—from discovering The Phantom as a child to becoming one of its premier illustrators—demonstrates how passion and perseverance can transform a dream into a vibrant career. Through his work, Foley continues to inspire both readers and fellow artists, reinforcing the timeless magic of comics.
