Political Cartoons

My best mate, Nathan - a Graphic Design student and hobbyist illustrator - was recently given the opportunity to draw a political cartoon in Sydney's Hub (a free publication on the streets of Sydney) on the alleged story that the Australian Federal Police went back on their word with the family of Scott Rush (the Bali drug-mule) when Rush's family cut a deal with the AFP to supply them information in exchange for handling their sons case with some leniency. Well, as of the 13 February, Scott Rush has been sentenced to life in prison for drug-trafficking and as a result, there is some doubt regarding the AFP's handling of the case.

Although the cartoon that heads this blog post has nothing to do with that particular story or my friends cartoon, it's a great example of effective political cartooning - one which provided me with quite a giggle. Note the simplicity. The drawings are straightforward; clear and effective; almost rushed, but rushed so it's artistic. Similarly, the colours are crayoned in or with textas; the characters emote particular and obvious gestures and there is not a straight line in sight. As a career - I would imagine it would be quite rewarding. Go here for the gallery of political cartoons on The Australian website.