Artist Frank Kozik has died at 61 years old. Kozik's art adorned the covers of such albums as Melvins' Houdini and Electroretard, Kyuss and Queens of the Stone Age's 1997 split, Acid's King's Busse Woods, as well as posters for bands like Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Soundgarden, Stone Temple Pilots, Helmet, The Offspring, and much more. Kozik was also the Creative Director of Kidrobot and created the Smorkin' Labbit character.
In addition to his art, Kozik ran Man's Ruin Records between 1995 and 2001 and released a handful of works by artists above alongside Electric Wizard, Entombed, Goatsnake, and more.
"We are devastated to inform you that Frank Kozik passed away unexpectedly this past Saturday.
"Frank was a man larger than himself, an icon in each of the genres he worked in. He dramatically changed every industry he was a part of. He was a creative force of nature. We are so beyond lucky and honored to have been part of his journey, and he will be missed beyond what words could ever express.
"He loved his wife, his cats, classic muscle cars, mentoring others, and Disneyland. His forceful presence will be missed by all who knew him. His legacy, like all great masters, will live on through his art and our memories of him. More info on a memorial service will come soon. For now, we ask you please respect our privacy during this trying time."
Several bands have also paid tribute to Kozik, such as the Melvins: "R.I.P. Frank Kozik – iconic cover artist for the Houdini and Electroretard records, and a bunch of other Melvins stuff, as well as countless other bands. Gone too soon."
Acid King: R.I.P. "@frankkozik. You were a huge part of Acid King. Giving misfit bands like ours a home when there was no label for us. Creating a scene that didn’t exist. Creating art for music that will be on planet earth longer than all of us. Thank you ????
