Letters from an American Chatting with Liza Donnelly
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Jul 25, 2025 In this lively conversation, Liza Donnelly, a celebrated writer and cartoonist known for her work in The New Yorker, dives into the historical journey of women in cartooning since the 1920s. She shares insights on the evolution of female representation and humor in the industry. Liza also discusses the power of storytelling to tackle complex issues and reveals her creative process, including her experience with Kickstarter for empowering artists. The talk is sprinkled with personal anecdotes, showcasing the intersection of art, community, and activism.
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Women Cartoonists' Changing Presence
- The New Yorker initially included female cartoonists in the 1920s but they were outnumbered by men.
- Women's cartoonists disappeared mid-century due to cultural conservatism and re-emerged in the 1970s with growing feminism.
Helen Hokanson and Barbara Sherman’s Women
- Helen Hokanson and Barbara Sherman depicted women exploring the world with sympathy in the 1920s.
- Sherman’s matronly women were loved but misunderstood as the years progressed, illustrating shifting public perceptions.
Mid-Century Shift in Cartooning Culture
- The New Yorker's early feminist influence waned after founder Harold Ross died in 1951.
- Cultural shifts and a crowded male-dominated cartoon scene contributed to a decline in women cartoonists mid-century.
