Iconic Bon Jovi and Deep Purple artwork designer Ioannis Vasilopoulos dies aged 66

Iconic Bon Jovi and Deep Purple artwork designer Ioannis Vasilopoulos has died at age 66.

The artist – who has also designed artwork for numerous hard rock and heavy metal bands over the decades – had been selling prints of his work on his official website prior to his passing. No cause of death has been revealed.

In a post on his Facebook page, the family of Vasilopoulos shared a statement earlier this week (April 8), writing: “The outpouring of love for Ioannis and his work is a great comfort. Ioannis wanted to do so many new things, and as a family, we have been tasked with continuing his work.”

“His energy will live on through his incredible art. His bright smile and child-like excitement live on in his works. Ioannis will undoubtedly be remembered as one of rock’s all-time great artists.”

Upon the announcement, bands who previously collaborated with Vasilopoulos shared their tributes on social media.

Progressive metal band Fates Warning – whose albums ‘Awaken The Guardian’, ‘A Pleasant Shade of Grey’ and ‘FWX’ feature artwork by Vasilopoulos – wrote that the artist was a “dear friend” and someone behind “some of the band’s most memorable images.”

Written in Greek, they signed off with “Memory eternal”, a prayer chant used by those of the Eastern Orthodox Christian faith.

Voivod shared a picture of its founding member and drummer Michel Langevin posing with Vasilopoulos, who is seen holding an artwork print of the band’s career-defining album ‘Nothingface’ – another classic Vasiopoulos piece.

“Our thoughts are with Ioannis’s family and friends during this difficult time,” they wrote. “His artistic legacy will continue to inspire and captivate audiences for generations to come. Rest in peace, Ioannis.”

Other notable album artworks designed by Vasilopoulos include Deep Purple’s ‘Rapture Of The Deep’, Sepultura‘s ‘Chaos A.D.’, Extreme‘s ‘Extreme II: Pornograffitti (A Funked Up Fairytale)’, and King Crimson‘s ‘The ConstruKction Of Light’. See tributes to Vasilopoulos below.