Hello everyone,
Today is a solemn day, as we learn of the passing of the talented John Blanche. Even though, in his recent photographs, his health condition already left little room for doubt, we can only helplessly acknowledge that time passes and that the people who shaped our hobby are gradually leaving us.
Bryan Ansell, Martin McKenna, Wayne England, Russ Nicholson, Colin Dixon, Paul Sawyer, François Lambert, Bruno Grelier, and likely many others have, each in their own way, left their mark on this field and a lasting imprint on our collective imagination.
Whether one likes his style or not, John Blanche will of course remain a major pillar who helped shape the “grimdark” aesthetic of Warhammer 40,000. An undeniable talent, extraordinary ideas, and a unique vision that deeply influenced the visual identity of this universe.
The recent retirement of Aly Morrison, alongside other great figures, reminds us that the bubble of our hobby—one we would like to believe is eternal—is also subject to the erosion of time. And that we ourselves, whether long-time hobbyists or not, are not eternal either.
Once again, thank you to those who have passed. And it is also time to thank those who are still with us, for their dedication, their creativity, and the dream they continue to pass on to us.
Anselme, creator of Only Wargames Fans
