A Kansas City legend I had the pleasure of knowing, and remembering.
When I was a kid, I simply loved to draw. I drew cats, dogs, cats fighting dogs, my dad in a bakers hat, it was a lot. Which was part of what made knowing Charlie Barsotti, so much more incredible that there was a guy, who made a living out of drawing cartoons, all
Although my youthful fascination was a bit of an oversimplification, it was a true kick in the 1990’s pants to see Charlie’s studio. It was always filled with toys, books, papers, and this fascinatingly shiny “tablet” that was on his desk. I can’t overemphasize how cool this was.
It would be an understatement to say that Charlie (Charles, in the public light) was an accomplished cartoonist. His work had been featured in many newspapers and magazines, including most notably, The New Yorker Magazine, and had several books published through Andrews McMeel Publishing with his simple, humorous illustrations.
Fast forward a few years; as I am mere months from graduation at RMCAD, I cannot help but think of Charlie’s path, and the number of submissions and ideas, and doodles he made to get where he was in his career. It’s a lot, but it is so worth it.
