Michael Turner 2004Today is a very special day, the birthday of comic artist Michael Layne Turner. He was a pillar in the modern comics community, known for his stunning art and particularly amazingly drawn female heroes. For those who had the honor of meeting him, he was known for his constant and sincere smile and great personality. He was what all comic creators should aspire to be; a brilliant artist with a great respect for his fans, a creator of beautiful work and popular creations, and even the founder of a now 12 year old comic company that holds his initials and creations in its very name, Aspen MLT. Unfortunately Michael Turner was taken from us far too early, having passed away in 2008 after a long and hard fought battle with cancer. But while he may not physically be with us, his spirit and legacy still stays strong in the comics community. Reprints of his most infamous stories and covers still regularly get purchased from major publishers like DC, Marvel, and Top Cow. Michael’s own creations still thrive with new series and comics released monthly. His art still finds its way into the market on beautifully remastered comic covers by his good friend and colorist, Peter Steigerwald, with hidden and lost gems arriving now and again to the extreme excitement of his many fans. Furthermore, the comic publishing studio he formed, Aspen MLT, not only still exists but thrives with many new titles and countless creators that worked with or were inspired by the legendary artist himself.
Michael Turner would’ve been 44 today, and many still celebrate this birthday by remember this inspirational figure and enjoying his great artwork. I personally have been hugely inspired by both Michael and his work for many years, and I am just one amongst many that feel this way. While I’ve written of his history and legacy in the past, I feel the best way to honor his memory is to share his brilliance with others. Pull out one of his old comics, or pick up a newer Aspen title, and enjoy it. Share it with your friends, families, and the rest of the comic loving community. There is no doubt that while many people already love his work, there are countless out there unwittingly awaiting their chance to stand in awe of all that this man has done. If you’d like to know a little bit more about the great Michael Turner, feel free to read and share this piece written about him on his birthday several years ago, or watch this great documentary put together by Andrea Franchin back in 2009:

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