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Freya Reeves (Lambides)
PUBLISHER EDITORIAL ADVISORY
BOARD Geoffrey Ashe, F.R.S.L. Susan P. Casteras William J. Connelly Mildred L. Day Edward R. Haymes Klaus P. Jankofsky Valerie D. Lagorio Suzanne H. MacRae Debra N. Mancoff James D. Merriman John R. Reed Raymond H. Thompson |
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On the one hand, it might be simplest to
share the Statement of Purpose that appeared as the first page of
the first issue of Avalon to Camelot, which was published
in the autumn of 1983… but that would only be part of the story.
Avalon to Camelot was a magazine whose eight issues were published between 1983 and 1987. By bringing together the scholarly and popular interest in the Arthurian legend for the first time, it was developed in an exciting creative crucible. And was staffed by a group of stalwart Arthurians - nearly all of whom volunteered their time and talents. Our enthusiasm and commitment, in turn, attracted the participation of an advisory board and contributors drawn from some of the most renowned scholars and writers in the field. Much to our delight, it also garnered high praise from enthusiasts and scholars alike. The magazine was profusely illustrated with images from medieval illuminated manuscripts, others from the heyday of book illustration, contemporary films, and some created especially for us by Alan Lee and other artists. It was printed on acid-free paper and was considered a feast for the eye… as well as the mind. Since that time, many of our colleagues and contributors have accomplished great things. Soon, Oxford University Press will publish major Arthurian books by two of our editors: in June 2004, Dan Nastali's (and co-author Phil Boardman's) Arthurian Annals, a 2-volume bibliography of Arthurian literature, film, music and more; in 2005, Alan Lupack's Oxford Guide to Arthurian Literature (meanwhile, see the online Camelot Project, which he edits). Alan Lee, the artist whose illustration of Merlin we commissioned for the cover of our final issue - and from which we also created a poster - has been on an almost legendary adventure himself these past several years as his imagery for "The Lord of the Rings" films came spectacularly to life, winning him an Academy Award (and no doubt contributing to the winning of many more). How apt. Gary Gianni, the artist who illustrated an article on Avalon to Camelot for the Chicago Tribune (later adapted as a poster), later illustrated Prince Valiant. Yes, the same comic strip that inspired an early interest in the Arthurian legend in many of our readers and staff. What could be better.... John and Caitlin Matthews have since authored numerous Arthurian books - with John serving as an advisor on the 2004 film, "King Arthur". And Arthurian scholarship is thriving: Quondam et Futurus is now Arthuriana, with Arthurnet keeping the discussion alive online. There's no question about it... the Once and Future King lives on. Please spread the word that Avalon to Camelot archives are open and awaiting the discovery of a whole new generation. With thanks and all best wishes to Freya Reeves |