A journey through the life of Paul Neri, whose love for comics transcends borders and generations
In the vast universe of comics, there are stars who, even if they don’t shine brightly in the public sky at times, their influence and legacy reverberate through the decades, paving the way for generations to come and leaving an indelible mark on the world. The very fabric of the middle. One of these stars, Paul Neary, has ended his earthly journey and left us at the age of 74 after a courageous battle with a long illness.
Paul Neary’s career has spanned more than five decades, a testament to his dedication and passion for comics. As an editor, penciler, inker and more, Neary has been a major contributor and influential editor not only in his native UK, but internationally to popular titles such as Captain America and Wolverine. – Head of Marvel UK.
Counselor’s fingerprint
What sets Neri apart is not only his ability to create and transform pages that capture readers’ imaginations, but also his commitment to mentoring emerging artists. It was his desire to nurture talent that left an indelible mark on those who had the opportunity to learn from him.
From those early days, Neri’s curiosity and passion for comics took him across the Atlantic, landing his first professional opportunity at Erie Magazine. This was the beginning of a career that would see him innovate and experiment with different genres and styles, from film adaptations of Hammer Comics to collaborations in Doctor Who magazine and more.
The reinvention of the British scene
His time at Marvel UK was particularly transformative, as after reprints from American comics, Neary set out to remake figures such as Captain Britain to create indigenous figures. But, perhaps most remembered, it was his efforts to create a nurturing environment for the growth of new creators, establishing a legacy of mentorship that extended beyond his editorial work.
Over the years, Neri has adapted and evolved, moving from writing and drawing to a more focused approach to inking, collaborating closely with figures such as Alan Davies and Brian Hitch. His work is celebrated not only for its artistic quality, but also for its impact on raising the standard and awareness of composition in the industry.
Dismissed from society
The outpouring of grief and gratitude, reflecting the deep respect and love the comics community had for Neri, was short-lived. Figures such as Paul Levitts and JM DeMathes shared parting words, showcasing not only his artistic talent, but Paul’s character and humanity. Gary Erskine and David Macho, among others, have recalled how Neri helped them find their potential and underscored his role as mentor and friend.
Although Neri is gone, his legacy lives on in the pages he illustrated, the stories he told, and most of all, the artists he taught and supported. The comics industry has lost one of its greats, but the memory of his contribution and mentoring influence will continue to inspire future creators.
The comics world bids farewell to not only the artist, but also his mentor, friend and visionary, Paul Neary. His work and influence will continue to be a beacon for those seeking to capture their own stories on the elusive canvas of graphic narrative. Rest in peace, Paul Neary, and may your legacy continue to inspire hearts and minds throughout the comics world.