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J.B. Handelsman, 1922-2007
Filed under: In Memoriam Tagged: art, cartoons, covers, David Remnick, in memoriam, J.B. Handelsman, Nancy Franklin, newyorker.com
I was sad to learn that longtime cartoonist and cover artist John Bernard (Bud) Handelsman, whose style will be instantly recognizable to readers of the magazine, died earlier this week. You can see some of his work on the Cartoon Bank and in his Comiclopedia bio. On his blog, cartoonist Mike Lynch has a tribute and more biographical information about the New Yorker, Playboy, and Punch artist.
Update: There's now a slide show of his cartoons and a reminiscence by Nancy Franklin on newyorker.com. The Associated Press also has an obituary, which includes this quote: "'Bud Handelsman found a way to combine the traditions of the New Yorker cartoon and editorial cartooning and make of it something totally his own,' David Remnick, the editor of The New Yorker, said in an e-mail. 'At its best, his work had political bite and, at the same time, a real humanity and wit. Everyone at the magazine—editors, writers, artists, and readers—will miss him and will miss his unique voice.'"
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Comments
No cartoonist was more literate. He also had a really good line. He will be missed.
Thank you for your notice of the death of Bud Handelsman. I was fortunate to meet him through his long standing friendship with my mother. Aside from his obvious talents and God-given humor, he was also a kind, decent man whose presence will be sorely missed.
Marjorie Johnston
Thank you for your posting of Mr. Handelsman's death. What a loss to art and humor. The "New Yorker" will never be the same.
You're right, he was a wonderful artist and witty thinker, and I'll really miss his contributions. Ms. Johnston, if you'd like, please share some of your memories of Mr. Handelsman—how lovely that you and your family got to know him.
Almost a year later and still a terrible loss for me and all my family. Bud Handelsman, Dad, to me, was the most witty and intelligent man I have ever known. A gentle and beautiful soul too.
It is good to read the thoughts and comments of others whose lives he touched.