Italian comic artist Cristiano Rea dies at 60, Zerocalcare pays tribute

Cristiano Rea, a cult figure in Rome's punk and comic scene, died on March 12, 2023 at age 60. Known for his black-and-white illustrations, Rea was a key visual chronicler of the city's punk and hardcore underground since the late 1970s. He created posters, fanzines, and album artwork for bands like Kortatu, Kenze Neke, Erode, and Banda Bassotti, blending militant anti-racist and anti-fascist graphics with music. His work appeared at venues such as Uonna Club and social centers like Breakout, Torre Maura, and Forte Prenestino. Rea also produced political illustrations for the Kurdish cause and Radio Onda Rossa. His latest book, 'Pank! 1977-2022. Poster e disegni,' edited by Federico Guglielmi and published by Goodfellas, was released weeks before his death, with a preface by Zerocalcare, who cited Rea as a major influence alongside Jamie Hewlett. Zerocalcare paid tribute on social media, calling Rea a mentor who 'shaped our imagination.'