A BIRTHDAY TRIBUTE to one of the greats…
I love Dick Giordano’s Batman art. Really love it.
In a weird way, he’s kind of underrated because we’re so accustomed to seeing him as an inker, particularly as Neal Adams’ artistic partner.
But the late Giordano — born 94 years ago, on July 20, 1932 — was a top-notch Batman penciller in his own right. So this year, for his annual birthday salute, I set about to find an image that really captures Giordano’s gorgeous work. (I mean, I can’t do his famous 1979 Detective Comics #483 pinup every year.)
So, check out this piece I found at Heritage Auctions:
Here’s the official description:
Dick Giordano – Batman Illustration Original Art (undated). Batman swings into action with a flying kick that looks like it’s going to pop out of the image in this vibrant specialty commission. Done in ink over watercolor on illustration board measuring 21.75″ x 18″. The piece, once matted, suffers from being sunstruck. Overall, in Very Good condition.
It sold in 2018 for $660, including buyer’s premium. That’s a freakin’ bargain!
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MORE
— DICK GIORDANO’s BATMAN Pin-Up: The Poster That Should Have Been. Click here.
— A DICK GIORDANO BATMAN Merchandising Art Gallery. Click here.
July 20, 2026
Dick Giordano was truly a gifted individual. Rest his soul.
July 20, 2026
I know it’s blasphemy, but as much as I love Neal Adams’ Batman, I preferred Giordano’s slightly bulkier physique for the Caped Crusader. This is a gorgeous version of his seminal Batman.
July 20, 2026
No shame in having a personal preference.
I honestly enjoy many different artistic interpretations of Batman. And enjoy some more than others given my particular mood at the moment.
July 20, 2026
His illustration of Batwoman in Who’s Who was beautiful.