Bernard Krigstein, American illustrator (b. 1919)

Bernard Krigstein (March 22, 1919 – January 8, 1990) was a towering figure in American art, renowned as both a masterful illustrator and a distinguished gallery artist. His profound impact on the landscape of sequential art, particularly through his groundbreaking contributions to EC Comics, earned him widespread acclaim and solidified his legacy as an innovator in the comic book medium.

Krigstein's distinctive artistic style, often recognized by his signature "B. Krigstein" on his works, pushed the boundaries of traditional comic book storytelling. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Krigstein approached comic art with a fine artist's sensibility, emphasizing composition, psychological depth, and experimental panel layouts. He challenged conventional pacing by frequently breaking a single action into multiple, often smaller, sequential panels. This technique allowed for a more deliberate narrative flow, enhancing tension and conveying complex emotional states, a radical departure for the comic books of the era.

Revolutionizing Comic Book Storytelling

His tenure at EC Comics, a publisher celebrated for its high-quality, often controversial, and socially conscious stories, provided the perfect canvas for Krigstein's progressive vision. EC titles like *Tales from the Crypt*, *Weird Science*, and *Impact* were known for their sophisticated narratives that transcended simple adventure, horror, or science fiction tropes. Krigstein's unique approach perfectly complemented EC's commitment to artistic integrity and mature themes, allowing him to explore narrative structures rarely seen in comic books before.

"Master Race": A Defining Work

Bernard Krigstein's most celebrated and enduring work in comic books is undeniably the eight-page story "Master Race." This powerful narrative, originally published in the debut issue (cover-dated April 1955) of EC Comics' *Impact*, stands as a landmark achievement in the medium. "Master Race" tells the harrowing story of a former Nazi concentration camp commandant, now a seemingly innocuous commuter in New York City, who is haunted by his past and ultimately confronted by a survivor. The story is lauded not only for its profound exploration of themes like guilt, accountability, and the lingering horrors of the Holocaust but also for its masterful execution.

Krigstein's artistic choices in "Master Race" were pivotal to its impact: the fragmented paneling, the use of silence, and the meticulous attention to character psychology all contributed to an unprecedented level of emotional intensity and realism in comic art. It demonstrated that comics could tackle serious, complex historical and moral issues with the same gravitas as other forms of literature or film, establishing a new benchmark for what graphic storytelling could achieve.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bernard Krigstein

Who was Bernard Krigstein?

Bernard Krigstein (1919-1990) was an American illustrator and gallery artist primarily known for his innovative and influential contributions to comic book art, particularly during his time at EC Comics. He was celebrated for his unique approach to sequential art, emphasizing psychological depth and experimental panel layouts.

What made Bernard Krigstein's comic book art innovative?

Krigstein's innovation stemmed from his fine art background and his departure from conventional comic book drawing. He frequently used experimental panel grids, fragmented sequences to depict time and emotion, and focused on psychological realism over mere action. His work often conveyed complex internal states and deliberate pacing, making his stories deeply engaging and visually sophisticated.

What is Bernard Krigstein's most famous work in comics?

His most renowned work is the eight-page story "Master Race," which was published in the first issue of EC Comics' *Impact* (April 1955). This story is celebrated for its powerful narrative on the Holocaust and its groundbreaking artistic execution, influencing generations of comic artists and writers.

What was the significance of "Master Race"?

"Master Race" is significant for its mature subject matter (the Holocaust, guilt, and justice) and for its masterful artistic storytelling. Krigstein's use of fragmented panels, psychological focus, and intense pacing elevated the comic book medium, demonstrating its capacity for profound and serious narrative exploration.

Why was EC Comics a good fit for Krigstein's work?

EC Comics was known for its editorial freedom and commitment to high-quality, often socially conscious stories that pushed boundaries. This environment allowed Krigstein to experiment with his artistic techniques and explore complex themes, aligning perfectly with his desire for more sophisticated storytelling in comics.