(Submitted News) Adding to its growing collection of extremely rare Michael Jackson-related offerings, Profiles in History has acquired the original "Victory" album cover art, painted by renowned artist Michael Whelan. The museum framed, 36" x 21" work of art is being consigned by Whelan himself and comes with a signed certificate of authenticity from the artist. It is the first time the piece has been offered for sale and fans at Comic Con in San Diego, CA will see it exhibited for the first time ever. The estimated sale price is $40,000-$60,000 and will be part of the Profiles in History auction of Hollywood memorabilia October 1 and 2, 2009. "This is the most historic piece of Michael Jackson album art extant from the height of his career," said Joe Maddalena, president of Profiles in History.
Whelan, who was commissioned to create the "Victory" album cover art by Michael Jackson in 1984, is a multiple-award-winning American artist. He worked for over 30 years as an illustrator specializing in science fiction and fantasy before devoting all his work to a fine art career. His art has appeared on over 350 book and magazine covers, including many by Stephen King, Edgar Rice Burroughs, Robert Heinlein and others.
"My experience with Michael and the other Jackson brothers, while admittedly brief, was different from what I've been reading in the papers or seeing on TV broadcasts. My recollection of Michael was as an articulate, considerate, soft spoken man, generous with his time and his compliments. His music has the power to unite us in sound, and I was fortunate to have had a part in the "Victory" album. I've held onto the painting he commissioned from me as a memento of those days, and for many years it has been hanging over the doorway to my studio. Now, I feel, it's time for me to share it," said Whelan.
The "Victory" album cover artwork depicts Michael Jackson wearing his iconic illuminating white glove. The glove will also be part of the Profiles in History auction in October and will be displayed "side-by-side" next to the artwork at the Profiles in History booth, #315, at Comic Con.
