The Complete Book of Humorous Art

by Bob Staake

In this witty and frank guide, 20 of today's top humorous illustrators talk about their work. They delve into such topics traditional and unconventional techniques, mediums and tools (from airbrush to toothbrush); the right way to get started in the business; where the money is; inspirations and influences; the ups and downs of illustrating for magazines, advertising, books, animation and other markets; and style... "slamitude" vs. subtlety.
Preliminary doodles, rough sketches and colorful final art illustrate the artists' graphic wits, which range from sophisticated to offbeat to downright bizarre. This is work that "takes no prisoners, straddles no fences, and makes no excuses." These illustrators thrive on distorting, exaggerating or totally recreating reality. "With that kind of freedom," notes author/artist Bob Staake, "anything can happen - and often does." If you need proof, just look inside.

134 pages, Hardcover

First published February 1, 1996

About the author

Bob Staake has authored and/or illustrated more than forty-two books, including The Red Lemon, a New York Times Book Review Best Illustrated Children’s Book of the Year. His work has graced the cover of The New Yorker a dozen times, and his November 17, 2008 Barack Obama victory cover was named Best Magazine Cover of the Year by Time magazine. He lives on Cape Cod, in Massachusetts.

Reviews

[Ed Heinzelman · Rating 4 out of 5]

this is more of an insider's book than a general interest book. the theories and technique discussion is solid and the history interesting. but maybe most interesting in 2025 for a book from 1996 is the limited discussion of the start of using computers for comic and cartoon art.

[Kevin Spear · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great book on the field of Humorous illustration. It isn't so much a technique book than an inspirational book. It gives great examples from pros and talks about their experience in the field