This is a charming, lighthearted underground that Gary Arlington published just as the underground comix revolution was getting on a roll in 1969. Though not shown on the cover, the indicia (which was hand lettered by Rory Hayes) indicates the book is titled Ric Sloane Comics. Sloane, born Richard Kenneth Sloane and more popularly known as R.K. Sloane, was 20 years old and just beginning his career when he produced this book. His artistic approach changed significantly from this innocent period, evolving into a much darker and more detailed style that became associated with punk rock, goth, death, zines and other types of "low brow" art.
Personally, I like Sloane's new style more than what he did in this book, but that doesn't mean I don't really like what he did in this book. Ric Sloane Comics only runs 20 pages including its covers and it's primarily about small creatures, boys and/or girls wandering or frolicing through bizarre and surreal landscapes. There's very little text and almost no dialogue, but there's little doubt that the impish imagery is presented within a drug-based, countercultural framework.
Sloane's artwork is highly decorative, similar to much of George Hansen's better work, though slightly more literal. The illustrations
employ fluffy clouds, smiling moons, families of stars and cheerful suns to create one of the most optimistic and mirthful environments for our protagonists to romp around in. Ric Sloane Comics is sort of a flower-power comic book, designed for festive hippies who never had a bad drug trip or got busted by the cops. There aren't as many of these undergrounds as one might think, so the few that do exist should be celebrated.
HISTORICAL FOOTNOTES:
It is currently unknown how many copies of this comic book were printed. It has not been reprinted. Though published by Gary Arlington and S.F. Comic Book Company, the book was printed by Don Donahue and Apex Novelties.
COMIC CREATOR:
Ric Sloane - 1-19, 20 (collaboration)
Wayne Sloane - 20 (collaboration)
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