NPR

For Comic Strip Authors In The Trump Era, 'No Art Should Live In A Vacuum'

Politics is seeping into everything these days, even the funny pages. Syndicated cartoonists Francesco Marciuliano and Hector Cantu talk to NPR's Michel Martin about today's art imitating life.

Like President Obama before him, Trump's presidency is having an effect on areas seemingly outside of politics, including the worlds of professional sports, movies, theater — and perhaps a newer addition: comics.

We're not talking political cartoons on editorial pages or the politically-charged , but the previously lighthearted strips that gently follow issues like teen romances. Recently, these comics have become — dare we say it — more "woke," with topical story lines and critical issues playing out on the panels.

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from NPR

NPR3 min read
The Original 'Harry Potter' Book Cover Art Is Expected To Break Records At Auction
Sotheby's June 26 auction of Thomas Taylor's watercolor illustration for Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone is estimated to sell for $400,000-$600,000.
NPR3 min read
Houston Area Braces For Flooding To Worsen Following Storms
A flood watch remained in effect through Sunday afternoon as forecasters predicted additional rainfall Saturday night, bringing another 1 to 3 inches of water to the soaked region.
NPR4 min read
'Hacks' Season 3 Is Proof That Compelling Storylines And Character Growth Take Time
Ava (Hannah Einbinder) and Deborah (Jean Smart) have both grown a lot since we first met them in Season 1. It's a reminder that shows need breathing room to achieve satisfying development.

Related Books & Audiobooks