2000 AD ARTISTS CELEBRATED IN TWO MAJOR EXHIBITIONS!

2000 AD, Britain's award-winning weekly fantasy, horror and science-fiction comic, has been at the forefront of graphic art throughout its twenty-four-year history, discovering and nurturing some of the finest talents in the industry and proving hugely influential to a whole generation of artists. Now, two major exhibitions are being held that showcase the work of some of the most respected artists to have appeared within the pages of the Galaxy's Greatest Comic.

Firstly, from 31 May to 2 September 2001 the Victoria & Albert Museum in London will be holding an exhibition of original artwork by a variety of classic artists, responsible for creating some of 2000 AD's most enduring characters. On display will be such priceless gems as Judge Dredd and The A.B.C. Warriors by Mick McMahon, Strontium Dog by Carlos Ezquerra, Dan Dare and Ro-Busters by Dave Gibbons and Bad Company's Kano by Brendan McCarthy, plus more recent works by Mark Harrison and Trevor Hairsine. Drawn from the extensive collection of lifelong 2000 AD devotee Rufus Dayglo, this exhibition represents a fan's-eye view of some of the unsung heroes behind the heroes ­ the artists.

Secondly, the Chase Art Centre in Cornwall will be exhibiting artwork by the much respected John Burns from 16 July to 1 August. Famous for his sumptuous fully painted illustration, the display will include 2000 AD artwork including Judge Dredd and Nikolai Dante, as well as such classic newspaper strips as Jane and Modesty Blaise.

These exhibitions should prove irresistible to any comics aficionado who wishes to see classic 2000 AD art in all its original glory. A nostalgic trip down memory lane for long-term fans, it will also give younger readers the opportunity to be inspired by some truly seminal works of art.

Art droids>2000 AD, an exhibition of original comic book artwork, is being held at the Print Gallery, Level 2, Henry Cole Wing, Victoria & Albert Museum, London (nearest tube: South Kensington) from 31 May to 2 September 2001. Telephone (020) 7942-2266 for details.

The John Burns Art Exhibition is being held at the Chase Art Centre, Trevanson Street, Wadebridge, Cornwall PL27 7AW from 16 July to 1 August 2001. Telephone (01208) 816880 for details or visit: http://www.chaseart.fsnet.co.uk