The illustrator, designer, and visual artist was 61 years old. News was confirmed on social media by his family, with wife Sharon sharing a statement on Instagram.
“Frank was a man larger than himself, an icon in each genre he worked in,” the tribute reads. “He dramatically changed the 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.”
Frank Kozik rose through the mail art community in the early 80s, working from his base in Austin, Texas. Drawn to outsider voices and the punk community, he designed tour posters and album artwork for a host of greats – think classic visual statements from Sonic Youth, Nirvana, the Melvins, and more.
Using arresting colours and clear lines, Frank Kozik seemed to tap into the surreal imagination of the music itself while also using his art as a conduit between fans the musicians themselves.
Famed album covers designed by Frank Kozik include the Offspring’s blockbuster ‘Americana’, the Melvins ‘Houdini’, and the eponymous debut from Queens Of The Stone Age.
