John Blanche, a hugely influential illustrator famed for his work on Warhammer 40,000 and other Games Workshop properties, has died. Blanche's passing was announced on Facebook by artist Trish Carden, who said he'd passed earlier this week.
"John was an inspirational artist, devoted to his family and a good friend to many," Carden wrote in a message requested by Blanche's wife Lin. "Always generous with his time and knowledge, he was very well loved by all who knew and worked with him. He’ll be hugely missed.
"The world of Warhammer was brought to life by his vision of the grimdark setting and I know his art meant a lot to so many of you. He leaves behind an enormous legacy that has enriched many people’s lives."
That is putting it mildly. Examples of Blanche's work can be seen (and purchased) in the 40K print shop, and they are utterly iconic representations of the setting. This one, entitled simply Black Templars Art, is classic WH40K:
English (US)