Unveiling the Intellectual Canvas of Cartooning
Delve into the world of cartooning and the minds of exceptional cartoonists who craft thought-provoking aesthetics, offering a visual language to reflect societal quirks and injustices. From the iconic creations of R. K. Laxman to the satirical genius of Champak Barbara, discover how cartoons enrich our lives ideologically, stimulate imaginations, and serve as a powerful medium for social commentary. Uncover the often-overlooked depth of cartooning, celebrating its wittiness, sagacity, and enduring impact on individuals of all ages.
Certain exalted form of art has always served the world of ideas with the best of recipes to feed the intellectual appetite of people. One such form of art is undoubtedly cartooning and the creators behind these appealing aesthetics are some unique delicate minds who delight the admirers of cartoons in all respects. The hustle and bustle of our daily busy schedule set boredom to our minds. These animated sketches and colours often rejuvenate us and lower our stress levels and most importantly enrich us idyllically. Who would forget R. K. Laxman’s immortal creation of ‘The Common Man’ and his political cartoons for ‘The Free Press Journal in Mumbai’. Oscar recipient film director Satyajit Ray’s stupendous sketches which illustrate his short stories are real treat for the eyes of the readers. Internationally acclaimed cartoonist from our country, Vins’ satirical work on the idiosyncrasies of the society has persuaded the common man to think beyond the horizon. The world of cartoons will always remember the like of Charles M. Schulzss for his creations which inspired many later cartoonists. The name of the innovative animator Walter Elias Disney will remain perpetually for his immortal creation of the character of Mickey Mouse and many more of his contributions in the animation industry. The satirical cartooning of Champak Barbara on socio-political issues of the contemporary time has always served as an eye-opener for the society.
The exposure to this art form is very limited in our country. Being a cartoonist is not merely about drawing some sketches but it needs far deeper philosophical understanding of the quirks and foibles of the contemporary world to poke it through the delicacies of cartooning. It is indeed a fine medium, rather visual language to reflect all sorts of inequalities, injustices and discriminations faced by masses in their daily life. Cartooning also touches hopes, aspirations and cravings of ordinary people. The impact of some of the best cartoons is sometimes everlasting and even matures people idealistically to face adverse situations in life. Cartoons often have larger than life appeal but they are always rooted very much to the cause they address.
The image of Rodin’s sculpture caged inside a transparent glass cubicle is the central theme of the painting representing the human existence in current times. The glass cage is amidst a black space which represents eternal time. An image of the coronavirus enters the black space on top right as an alien in the space. The deer represents the animal kingdom and the butterfly represents an element of hope in these times.
A few lines drawn with pencils by cartoonists or rather cartoon artists animate the characters drawn such that it not only kindles our eyes with delight but we actually tend to believe in them as living beings. This is a marvelous form of art that needs to be celebrated with the highest esteem. Unfortunately, In India, the masters behind these great creations are seldom given the spotlight that they deserve. It is very rare when these great minds get personal coverage either in electronic media or print media.
Children’s mind’s eye always seeks elevation above their realistic surrounding where they are confined. They are always fascinated by cartoons as they paint the canvas of their mind with vivid imaginations. In several European countries and America people adorn the walls of their drawing rooms with cartoon sketches. In our country also aficionados of art and elegance have this practice of decorating their living rooms with cartoon sketches but it is not very common even among the educated people. The main reason behind this is that cartooning is still looked upon by most people as mere animations and a source of fun and that too for kids alone. Due to this attitude many people do not even realize that cartoon is no less in any respect than any other form of urbane art.
In fact, it is the wittiest, the most sagacious and the most wonderful form of art that is very enriching and can be relished by all irrespective of their age or cerebral differences.
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