David A. Trampier, Iconic Artist Of Early D&D, Passed Away This Week

Anyone who grew up playing the beloved editions of Advanced Dungeons & Dragons will remember the detailed medieval fantasy artwork that made the role-playing games creatures and characters come to life. Artist David A. Trampier was the man who drew those illustrations. An Illinois newspaper is reporting that he passed away this week at the age of 59.

Trampier’s renderings of wizards, giant spiders and lizardmen helped electrify the rules, storytelling and play experience of Dungeons & Dragons. But his whereabouts were a mystery for years because the artist faded into obscurity after D&D lodged itself into the consciousness of a generation of role-playing game fans. A remembrance at Tor.com says that he was considering doing the convention circuit this year. Sadly, with his loss, any stories that Trampier might’ve told about his contribution to the seminal role-playing game are gone with him. Condolences go out to his family and loved ones.