Wednesday, June 26, 2024

An Influential Illustrator

















Bob Peak (1927-1992) was an award-winning American illustrator whose mixed media, sketchy style contributed thirty years to the film industry. He was famous for his many cover illustrations for TV Guide, other magazine advertisements, USPS stamps, and portraits.

What about Bob.

Wednesday, June 19, 2024

Synopsis: Thrust Into Television

Many movie character actors found steady work and arguably more exposure with the advent of television. 

















MYRON HEALEY (1923-2005) 

Healey's characters may be despised more than others in film or television during the 1950s thanks to his condescending delivery as a villain. When Healey was "bad" he could be despicable. He somewhat carried the torch from actor, Harry Lauter, nine years his elder. He appeared in some 140 films, including more than 80 westerns, frequently for Monogram Pictures. But it was television that brought him intimate exposure. Healey served in World War II as an Air Corps navigator and bombardier, flying in B-26 Martin Marauders in the European Theatre. After the war he continued military duties, retiring in the early 1960s as a captain in the United States Air Force Reserve.

Discover more about Healey's career at IMDB.

Wednesday, June 12, 2024

Big idea. No Sale.











Bohn Aluminum and Brass Corporation, Detroit, Michigan, were known for their futurism illustrations. One of their least bazaar concepts was a future commuter train. Its basic design came to reality in 1956 as the experimental Aerotrain, General Motors' two highly styled train sets. Their automotive designs were the inspiration and if one looks closely at Bohn's version, they may spot port holes (or not) that were closely associated with GM's Buick division. GM decided to use their city bus shells as coaches to save weight and cost. The lightweight coaches gave an unsettling ride for high-speed rail travel. Despite testing with major railroads, only the Rock Island Railroad bought them for use only in commuter service.

More on the Aerotrain here.

Wednesday, June 5, 2024

Just Add Water





















If you spot this brand in your neighborhood supermarket it is not from Scandinavia. The unique spelling originated in Seattle, Washington in 1932. Rose Charters and her husband decided to tackle the challenge of making the perfect, easy-to-prepare pie crust. She called her product Krusteaz by cleverly combining “crust” and “ease.” The spirit of innovation continued with their introduction of “just add water” Pancake Mix and Belgian Waffle Mix. The Krusteaz fan base expanded eastward to become a national favorite by offering a variety of products. 

Pictured is a current box of Krusteaz Waffle Mix.