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It’s a compelling conversation with the renowned cartoonist who explains why the political art of visual journalism is facing extinction
Cartoons are meant to be colorful. But for those who create cartoons for a living – especially political cartoons – the color is turning dark. Michael de Adder lives in the world where art and journalism intersect. He crafts complex news stories into a single image. And the award winning cartoonist calls it one that often makes people think. Feel. And laugh. I recently had the opportunity to talk with him about it.
“I take the top news story and boil it down to its essential ingredients,” de Adder explains. “Hopefully, I’m funny or emotional in some way.”
It may sound simple in his explanation. But de Adder tells me it is demanding. Editorial cartoons require not only artistic precision but a deep understanding of the political climate. And de Adder says he reads as many articles as possible to craft a cartoon that is insightful to the specific subject.
The visual sharpness of a political cartoon offers something unique, unlike any other medium. Nothing can replace the visual commentary of a well-crafted political cartoon.
Michael de Adder, editorial cartoonist
I asked de Adder if he believes political cartoons are a piece of the journalism puzzle, and possibly, another way to tell the story. He responds that many cartoonists consider themselves artists first. But de Adder identifies himself as a journalist.
“I very much consider myself a journalist, a visual storyteller,” he says. “It’s where news meets art. And it’s an irreplaceable element of our democratic discourse.”
His career has been marked by significant opportunities. Most recently, he was creating political cartoons for The Washington Post. His art could be seen around the world. But de Adder shares with me a change in leadership there left his work unappreciated. This led to a quick, quiet exit from a position de Adder felt he was meant to do. And now the career path de Adder chose is on uncertain ground.
“Editorial cartooning is quickly disappearing,” he tells me. “Once a staple of newspapers and a favorite of readers, my art form is vanishing. Media companies prioritize caution over commentary.”
Editorial cartoonists occupy a special, niche space. It blends a love of politics, art, and humor. And as de Adder puts it, these artists have few alternative paths. Comedy writing or other art careers are options, but the important connection between drawing and political journalism is vanishing.
“We’re losing a very unique art form,” he explains. “It may never come back.”
It’s a grim outlook. But de Adder is finding new avenues. He’s now contributing to The Globe and Mail in Canada. And his Substack is starting to gain momentum.
“I’ll be fine in the end,” he says. “But if this art form continues to fade, it will be lost forever.”
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