Famous British Cartoonists

Alan Moore is an acclaimed English author known for his influential work in comic books, including iconic titles like Watchmen, V for Vendetta, and Swamp Thing. He began writing for underground fanzines before gaining recognition for his work in mainstream publications like 2000 AD and Warrior. Moore's innovative storytelling and complex characters helped elevate the status of comics both in the US and UK. He has worked on major characters like Batman and Superman, and has also published original titles and experimental works, showcasing his diverse talents and unique voice in the industry.

Sir John Tenniel was an English illustrator, graphic humorist, and political cartoonist known for his work in the second half of the 19th century. A graduate of the Royal Academy of Arts, he was the first illustrator or cartoonist to be knighted for his artistic achievements in 1893. Tenniel's career was highlighted by his role as the principal political cartoonist for Punch magazine for over five decades. He is most famous for his illustrations in Lewis Carroll's "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland" and "Through the Looking-Glass," which are considered the definitive depictions of the characters.

Richard Williams was a highly acclaimed Canadian-British animator, voice actor, and painter. He achieved great recognition for his work as the animation director on the iconic film Who Framed Roger Rabbit, winning two Academy Awards. Additionally, he directed the renowned but unfinished feature film The Thief and the Cobbler. Williams also made significant contributions as a film title sequence designer and animator for various projects, including A Christmas Carol, What's New Pussycat?, and The Pink Panther films. He authored The Animator's Survival Kit, a comprehensive guide to animation techniques, and continued his artistic endeavors at Aardman Animations.

Willie Rushton was a versatile English talent known for his work as an actor, cartoonist, comedian, and satirist. He gained prominence as a co-founder of the well-known satirical magazine Private Eye, where his wit and humor shone through. Rushton's contributions to the world of comedy and satire were widely recognized, and he built a reputation for his sharp and insightful commentary. With a career spanning various creative fields, he left a lasting impact on British entertainment and humor.

Gerald Scarfe is an accomplished English cartoonist and illustrator known for his work as an editorial cartoonist for The Sunday Times and illustrator for The New Yorker. He is renowned for his graphics for rock band Pink Floyd, notably on their album The Wall and its film adaptation, as well as the music video "Welcome to the Machine". Scarfe's diverse career also includes serving as production designer on Disney's Hercules and creating the opening titles for the TV series Yes Minister and Yes, Prime Minister.

William Heath Robinson was an English cartoonist, illustrator, and artist celebrated for his whimsical and intricate drawings of elaborate machines designed to achieve simple tasks. He gained fame for creating "Heath Robinson contraptions," which describe unnecessarily complex and implausible devices. This term became popular during World War II when resources were scarce, and people had to improvise solutions using whatever materials were available. Robinson's work continues to be recognized for its ingenuity and creativity in problem-solving through unconventional means.

George Cruikshank was a renowned British caricaturist and book illustrator, often likened to the "modern Hogarth" for his artistic talent. He gained widespread acclaim for his illustrations in books by Charles Dickens and other prominent authors, which resonated with audiences worldwide. His work showcased a unique blend of humor, satire, and social commentary, earning him a distinguished reputation in the art world. Cruikshank's illustrations not only brought stories to life but also provided valuable insights into the society and culture of his time.

Jessica Alice Cave Lloyd, known professionally as Jessie Cave, is a multi-talented English actress, comedian, YouTuber, author, and cartoonist. She gained recognition for her role as Lavender Brown in the Harry Potter film series and for her performances in London and at the Edinburgh Fringe. Cave has published a book of cartoon doodles titled Love Sick and some designs from it have been featured on greeting cards. Additionally, she wrote and performed a comedic play based on her life and relationships, titled Sunrise, and has released her first novel, Sunset.

George du Maurier was a talented Franco-British cartoonist and writer, best known for his contributions to the satirical magazine Punch. He gained fame for his gothic novel Trilby, which introduced the iconic character Svengali. His work was influential in the literary and artistic circles of his time. Additionally, du Maurier's artistic talents were passed down to his descendants, including notable writers and artists such as Angela du Maurier and Daphne du Maurier. His legacy also extended to inspiring J.M. Barrie's famous character Peter Pan through his family connections.

James Gillray was a renowned British caricaturist and printmaker known for his satirical works targeting political and social figures during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. His etched satires, produced primarily from 1792 to 1810, earned him the title "the father of the political cartoon." Gillray's pieces, held at the National Portrait Gallery in London, lampooned notable figures such as George III, Napoleon, prime ministers, and generals. Regarded as a pioneer in the genre, Gillray's sharp wit, humor, and artistic skill solidified his position as one of the most influential cartoonists alongside William Hogarth.

David Low was a self-taught cartoonist from New Zealand who gained fame for his satirical depictions of political figures like Adolf Hitler, Benito Mussolini, and Joseph Stalin. He began his professional career at The Canterbury Times before moving to Australia and eventually settling in London. His work for publications such as The Star and the Evening Standard captured the rise of fascism in the 1930s and the events of World War II. Low's provocative cartoons led to his work being banned in Italy and Germany.

Sir Quentin Saxby Blake is an accomplished English cartoonist, caricaturist, illustrator, and children's writer with a prolific career spanning over 300 books. Notably, he has illustrated 18 works by renowned author Roald Dahl, a collaboration that has garnered significant acclaim. His impactful contributions to children's literature led to prestigious accolades, such as the Hans Christian Andersen Award in 2002. As the first British Children's Laureate from 1999 to 2001, he further solidified his influence in the realm of children's illustration and writing. A patron of the Association of Illustrators, Blake continues to inspire and captivate audiences with his imaginative creations.

Carl Giles, also known simply as Giles, was a renowned British cartoonist who gained fame for his work in the Daily Express newspaper. He was recognized for his distinctive cartoon style, characterized by highly detailed panels with intricate visuals and multiple layers of humor beyond just a single joke. One of his notable contributions was the creation of the extended Giles family, a set of recurring characters that captivated audiences and became a central feature of his cartoon strip since its inception in 1945.

Alan Davis is an accomplished English artist and writer specializing in comic books. He has made significant contributions to the industry with his work on various titles, including Captain Britain, The Uncanny X-Men, ClanDestine, Detective Comics, Excalibur, and JLA series like The Nail and Another Nail. Known for his distinctive style and storytelling abilities, Davis has established himself as a prominent figure in the world of comics, garnering a dedicated following of fans and earning critical acclaim for his creative endeavors.

Shitty Watercolour, a British painter and cartoonist, gained recognition for sharing watercolour paintings on Reddit in 2012. He expanded his reach by showcasing his work on various platforms such as his website, Tumblr, and Twitter. Graduating with a degree in philosophy, politics, and economics from the University of York, he has built a successful career as an artist known for his unique style and engaging content. Shitty Watercolour continues to captivate audiences with his creative expression and artistic talent across different social media channels.

Simon Bisley is a renowned British comic book artist recognized for his impactful contributions to the industry in the 1990s. He gained widespread acclaim for his distinctive and gritty artwork on popular comic series such as ABC Warriors, Lobo, and Sláine. Bisley's unique style, characterized by bold lines, vibrant colors, and intricate details, has left a lasting impression on fans and fellow artists alike. His work continues to be celebrated for its dynamic and visceral quality, solidifying his status as a significant figure in the world of comic book art.

John Leech was a British caricaturist and illustrator known for his work in Punch, a magazine that combined political satire and social comedy. He catered to contemporary prejudices while supporting social reforms. His cartoons on the Crimean War influenced public perceptions of heroism and warfare. Leech was the first illustrator of Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol" and a pioneer in comics, creating the character Mr. Briggs and sequential illustrated gags. His professional life was marked by a blend of critical yet humorous commentary on societal issues and events.

Norman Thelwell was an English cartoonist renowned for his humorous illustrations of ponies and horses. He gained fame for his witty and charming drawings that captured the essence of equestrian life. In addition to his work with equine subjects, Thelwell was also a talented comic artist, creating the popular series Penelope and Kipper. His unique style and ability to convey humor through his art made him a beloved figure in the world of cartoons and illustration.

Ronald William Fordham Searle was a versatile English artist known for his work as a satirical cartoonist, comics artist, sculptor, medal designer, and illustrator. He gained fame as the creator of St Trinian's School and for his collaboration with Geoffrey Willans on the popular Molesworth series. Searle's intricate and humorous illustrations captivated audiences, showcasing his talent and creativity across various mediums. His contributions to the world of art and literature left a lasting impact, solidifying his legacy as a prominent figure in the industry.

Mark Boxer was a prominent British magazine editor, social observer, political cartoonist, and graphic portrait artist known by his pen-name 'Marc'. He made significant contributions to the field through his keen observations and artistic talents. As a magazine editor, he played a key role in shaping editorial content and engaging readers. His work as a political cartoonist and portrait artist showcased his creativity and ability to communicate complex ideas through art. Boxer's professional endeavors left a lasting impact on the world of journalism and visual arts.

Brian Bolland is a renowned British comics artist known for his work on iconic comic book series such as Judge Dredd and Batman. He played a significant role in the 'British Invasion' of the American comics industry, with notable contributions to DC Comics, including the critically acclaimed graphic novel Batman: The Killing Joke. Bolland's talent extends beyond illustration, as he has also written and produced comic strips and pin-ups. His impressive portfolio includes cover art for various superhero comic book series, showcasing his versatility and artistic prowess.

Phil May was an influential English caricaturist known for his distinctive style characterized by energetic and economical lines. He revolutionized the field of illustration by steering it away from traditional Victorian aesthetics towards a more modern and humorous approach to cartooning. His work played a significant role in shaping the evolution of humorous cartoons, setting new standards for artists in the industry. Phil May's contributions continue to be celebrated for their impact on the world of caricature and illustration.

Martin Rowson is a prominent British editorial cartoonist and writer known for his political satire and scathing, graphic style. He describes his work as "visual journalism" and his cartoons are regularly featured in publications like The Guardian and the Daily Mirror. Rowson also contributes freelance cartoons to various other publications, including Tribune, Index on Censorship, and the Morning Star. Additionally, he serves as the chair of the British Cartoonists' Association, showcasing his influence and leadership within the industry.

Fougasse, the pen name of Cyril Kenneth Bird CBE, was a renowned British cartoonist known for his work in Punch magazine, where he later served as editor. He gained widespread recognition for his World War II warning propaganda posters, with "Careless talk costs lives" becoming especially iconic. Fougasse also made significant contributions to the London Underground by designing numerous posters. His artistic talent and impactful messaging left a lasting impression on both the publishing world and the public during his prolific career.

Sir Osbert Lancaster was an English cartoonist, architectural historian, stage designer, and author known for his cartoons in the British press. He aimed to inform the public about good buildings and architectural heritage. Lancaster published books on architecture, coining terms for architectural styles. He introduced single-column-width cartoons to British papers and drew about 10,000 "pocket cartoons" for The Daily Express. He also designed costumes and scenery for various ballet and theatre productions, receiving a knighthood for his diverse career.

Charles Samuel Keene was a renowned English artist and illustrator known for his exceptional work in black and white. He gained recognition for his contributions to various publications, including Punch magazine, where his intricate and detailed illustrations became highly regarded. Keene's distinctive style and skillful use of line work set him apart as a leading artist of his time. Throughout his professional career, he consistently demonstrated a keen eye for capturing the nuances of everyday life through his art, leaving a lasting impact on the artistic community.

Raymond Jackson, known as JAK, was a prominent British newspaper cartoonist, best recognized for his work at the London Evening Standard starting in 1952. He began as a general artist and illustrator before becoming the Political Cartoonist in 1965. JAK's cartoons often courted controversy with their sharp commentary, including depictions of negative views of Irish people. His distinctive style featured figures with three fingers and a signature in capitals with characteristic "blob" serifs. He was a respected member of the British Cartoonists' Association and contributed to various publications until his passing in 1997.

Reg Smythe was a British cartoonist known for creating the beloved Andy Capp comic strip. He began his career in the 1930s as a messenger for the Hartlepool Mail and eventually transitioned to drawing cartoons for the same publication. In 1957, he introduced the character of Andy Capp, a working-class man known for his distinctive flat cap and cigarette. The comic strip became widely popular and was syndicated in newspapers around the world, cementing Smythe's reputation as a talented and influential cartoonist.

Bernhard Gillam was an influential English-born American political cartoonist who made a significant impact on the political landscape of his time. Starting as a copyist in a lawyer's office, he transitioned to engraving and eventually cartooning. His work appeared in notable publications like Frank Leslie's Illustrated Newspaper, Harper's Weekly, and Puck magazine. Gillam's cartoons played a crucial role in shaping public opinion during the 1884 US presidential campaign and subsequent elections. He was known for his depictions of political figures and his strong advocacy for Republican protectionism.

ILYA, also known as Ed Hillyer, is a prominent British comics writer and artist with a versatile portfolio. His work spans various genres and has been featured in publications by leading US and UK comics companies such as Crisis and Dark Horse's Manga Mania. He has contributed to DC Comics' Vertigo imprint and collaborated with international book publishers and cultural institutions like Little Brown, SelfMadeHero, and The Royal Academy of Arts. ILYA's work has been showcased in renowned newspapers like The Independent on Sunday and The Times, highlighting his impact on the comic industry.

Captain Charles Bruce Bairnsfather was a renowned British humorist and cartoonist known for creating the popular character Old Bill. His iconic cartoons, featuring Old Bill and his friends Bert and Alf, were regularly published in The Bystander magazine during World War I. Bairnsfather's work provided comic relief during the war, resonating with soldiers and civilians alike. His distinctive style and witty humor made him a beloved figure in the world of cartoons, establishing him as a prominent and influential artist in his field.