DC legend Alex Ross recently took to X to showcase how far he’s come in his artistic journey withSuperman. This side-by-side comparison is all sorts of fun, but it also makes one thing abundantly clear—Ross was born to draw the Man of Steel.
Despite Ross’s then-immature style, the image still manages to capture the hope and goodness Superman embodies.
Ross’s recent post on Xshowcases a intriguing side-by-side comparison of two Superman drawings—one sketched when he was just seven years old and the other a professionally crafted masterpiece from his career.
The difference in skill is undeniable, yet even his childhood drawing carries an impressive charm. More than just a fun look back, this comparison is a powerful testament to Ross’s artistic evolution,showing how his raw talent and passion for Superman transformed over the yearsinto the breathtaking work that fans now eagerly pay top dollar to own.
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Bulletproof Superman Art by Alex Ross
The Superman drawing Ross created at seven years old depicts the Man of Steel soaring with his arms raised, wearing a slight smile.Despite Ross’s then-immature style, the image still captures the hope and goodness Superman embodies.However, this lighthearted depiction is sharply contrasted by a printed caption at the top of the drawing that reads,“Here is a myth: In America, if you work very hard, with enough determination and persistence, you can become anything you want.”Ross hasn’t elaborated on the caption, leaving it unclear whether it was part of the original paper or added later.
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Given that Superman symbolizes hope, determination, and once even ‘the American Way,‘the contrast between the uplifting image and the somber caption is more than a little ironic. While Ross is unlikely to expand on it, the juxtaposition remains intriguing, even if no deeper meaning was intended. Beyond this contrast, the comparison itself has fans buzzing, offering a rare glimpse into the evolution of one of their favorite artists. And even without the nostalgic element, Ross’s professional Superman portrait stands on its own as a breathtaking piece worthy of admiration.
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Superman ‘Shirt-Rip’ Art by Alex Ross
One of the reasonsAlex Ross’s Superman artis so cherished by fans is his signature hyper-realistic, painterly style, which adds profound emotional depth, allowing fans to connect with the character on a visual level. Ross’s use of gouache, an opaque watercolor paint, gives his art a unique look that sets it apart from other artists, while also evoking Golden Age nostalgia. Through iconic, emotionally charged poses, likeSupermanin his flight stance, Ross captures not just the Man of Steel’s power, but his enduring sense of hope and heroism, solidifying his work as one of the most definitive visual interpretations of the character.
