Crabby Old Guy Again

What happened, after decades of fabulous covers, that Time magazine pulled away from interesting and colorful illustrated portraits of people on the cultural forefronts? Once in a while, these days, there might be a painted portrait on the cover, but they seem dull and dreary.

It used to be, not so long ago, that folks would actually look forward week after week to see who would be portrayed in some artistic way. Case in point, this bright and cheery cover:

Richard Amsel — Lily Tomlin — 1977

Time magazine covers used to be collected and treasured. These days, they are glanced at and quickly tossed into the recycle bins.

I want to start a campaign—some way, somehow—directed to our current media. With so many wonderful illustrators in our modern era, I want to see a new golden age of illustration!!!!

Does anyone else feel that way?