Beyond Middle-earth
Jay Johnstone’s talents extend far beyond illustrating Tolkien’s world. A prolific book designer and illustrator, his acclaimed covers grace Tolkien’s Library by Oronzo Cilli and Tom Shippey, Sub-creating Arda by Thomas Honegger and Dimitra Fimi, and many more fantasy and academic titles.
His artistry reached new heights with thirty stunning illustrations for Mervyn Peake’s legendary Gormenghast trilogy – a project that earned widespread acclaim and cemented his reputation as one of fantasy’s most versatile visual storytellers.
And now, his most ambitious undertaking yet: 2026 marks the launch of Siege Perilous, a breathtaking Arthurian board game featuring over 300 hand-drawn paintings and maps – every piece crafted by Jay himself. It’s a landmark achievement that brings the grandeur of Camelot to your tabletop.
From the shelves of scholars to the gaming table, Jay Johnstone’s art transforms every world it touches.



















