Two Cartoonists Go Head-to-Head on Trump and Global Turmoil
In a fascinating artistic challenge, cartoonists Martin Rowson and Ella Baron were assigned to draw on the theme of Donald Trump and a world in turmoil, all under the same tight deadline. Guardian photographer David Levene visited their studios to document their distinct approaches to this timely subject.
Martin Rowson's Traditional Craft in South-East London
Working from his home in south-east London, Martin Rowson embraces a traditional, tactile method. He describes his process as akin to ancient human practices, stating, "In the same way humans have for at least 67,800 years, I make marks with something runny on a flattish surface." His ludditism shines through in his love for physical tools, with pencils, pens, and brushes that caress and snag on paper, creating a raw, authentic feel.
Rowson never plans his cartoons in advance, pitching, drawing, and publishing within a single day for the Guardian. Each piece takes approximately six hours from a blank sheet to completion, reflecting the intense, spontaneous nature of political commentary.
Ella Baron's Digital Artistry in East London
In contrast, Ella Baron operates from her studio in east London using modern technology. She draws with a Wacom Cintiq tablet and stylus, allowing for precision and flexibility. Baron notes that while digital drawing avoids smudges, it introduces its own challenges, such as mistakes that can be endlessly tweaked. She explains, "I can zoom in on individual lines and tweak them to such an extent that if you were working on paper you’d have made a hole in it and the desk below."
Her focus is on capturing the slippage in Trump's self-presentation, using art to undermine his ego. She believes that politics is inherently messy, and her cartoons aim to reflect this complexity through digital means.
A Comparative Look at Artistic Processes
This head-to-head project highlights the diverse ways artists interpret current events. Rowson's hands-on, time-honoured technique contrasts with Baron's innovative digital approach, yet both aim to critique and illuminate the turbulent era of Trump and global instability. Their work, as captured by Levene, offers a unique glimpse into the creative minds shaping political discourse through visual satire.
