Goosebumps, the beloved horror series for children, has solidified its place as one of the most popular and timeless collections of its genre. Authored by R.L. Stine, these books have achieved the remarkable feat of selling over 400 million copies worldwide.
Not only have they captivated young readers, but they have also been adapted into movies, TV shows, video games, and various other mediums. While the ingenious plots and unexpected twists make Goosebumps extraordinary, its allure is further enhanced by the iconic covers. These covers, created by the talented artist Tim Jacobus, possess a unique charm that perfectly encapsulates the essence of each story within a single captivating image.
Tim Jacobus‘ artistic journey began in his childhood, as he was always drawn to the realms of horror and fantasy. Pursuing his passion, he enrolled at the School of Visual Arts in New York to study art. Starting as a freelance illustrator in the 1980s, he honed his craft while working with different magazines, book publishers, and advertising agencies.
Along the way, he drew inspiration from notable artists like Frank Frazetta, Norman Rockwell, Salvador Dali, and Roger Dean, and infused his own distinct style and personality into his artwork.
In 1992, Tim Jacobus received an exciting opportunity from Scholastic to embark on a new project: illustrating the covers for Goosebumps Art. Entrusted with considerable creative freedom by R.L. Stine and the editors, he embraced the venture wholeheartedly.
For Tim, working on Goosebumps was a gateway to exploring his imagination and experimenting with diverse techniques and effects. His primary objective was to craft covers that were both engaging and visually appealing. Attention to detail played a vital role in his process, as he meticulously considered elements such as lighting, composition, and mood.
Employing saturated colors, exaggerated imagery, and warped perspectives, Tim developed a distinctive style that became synonymous with the Goosebumps brand.
Over the course of his career, Tim Jacobus has illustrated more than 100 Goosebumps illustrations books, in addition to various spin-offs and related merchandise. He takes immense pride in his contributions to the Goosebumps phenomenon, recognizing the substantial cultural impact of his art on millions of readers worldwide.
Receiving messages from fans who grew up with his covers fills him with joy and gratitude. Tim considers himself fortunate to have been involved in such a successful and enjoyable project, and he aspires to inspire fellow artists through his remarkable body of work.
Within the realm of illustration, Tim Jacobus stands as a true legend, leaving an indelible mark on the history of horror literature for children. His covers not only possess beauty and chills but also hold a special place in our memories as iconic works of art.
When we think of Goosebumps, it is the evocative imagery of Tim Jacobus that springs to mind. His remarkable talent is responsible for defining the signature look of the series, attracting countless readers to the captivating world of Goosebumps Art.
