In collaboration with Marvel Comics, Dark Horse Books continues the Bullpen Books series of thoughtfully designed and curated art books featuring iconic artwork by some of Marvel Comics’ most influential figures. The inaugural installment of this series, The Art of the Amazing Spider-Man, showcases the work of John Romita Sr. and Gil Kane on a historical journey through time and artwork from The Amazing Spider-Man. Now, readers are invited to explore Jack “King” Kirby’s groundbreaking run on The Fantastic Four with co-creator Stan Lee, with reproduced archival scans along with essays and commentary from editor-designer team Ian Chalgren and John Lind. The Art of Fantastic Four pays tribute to the first family of the Marvel Universe when the oversized art collection arrives in fall 2025.
Since its debut in 1961, The Fantastic Four has been a cornerstone of the Marvel Age of Comics. The series, co-created by legendary artist Jack Kirby and writer Stan Lee, revolutionized the comic book industry and set the standard for a new brand of superhero storytelling. Kirby, one of the most influential creators in comic book history, infused the series with his dynamic artwork and unparalleled imagination, cementing its place in comics history.
Within the oversized Bullpen Books edition is a treasury of Kirby’s artwork from his lengthy run on The Fantastic Four spanning 1961 to 1970. It includes complete stories from issues #60, #71, #82, and #83, and the spectacular 48-page Fantastic Four Annual #6. These selections provide a glimpse into the early days of Marvel’s bullpen, showcasing Kirby’s artistic genius during one of his most creative periods.
“Reading these complete issues of Fantastic Four from Kirby’s original art gives fans rare access to the imagination and innovation of the most influential creator in comic book history,” said Ian Chalgren. “Presenting these pages in an oversized 10″ x 14″ format allows readers to enjoy Kirby’s dynamic line work and storytelling, which played a key role in defining the Marvel Age of comics. We assembled Bullpen Books The Art of the Fantastic Four to be a celebration and a resource—a source of inspiration, a tool for study, and a tribute to the legacy of Jack Kirby’s work.”
Look for The Art of Fantastic Four from Bullpen Books when the 200-page oversized hardcover arrives in bookstores and comic shops on September 23 and 24, 2025, respectively, for $59.99. Pre-order now from Amazon, Barnes and Noble, or your local bookstore or comic shop, and visit Comic Shop Locator or bookshop.org for more details and stores near you.
