Robert Grossman - Cartoonist Survey #32

Robert Grossman has been a cartoonist, painter, sculptor, illustrator and animator for over 45 years. He received his Bachelors degree in Fine Arts from Yale University. While attending Yale he was the editor of the "Yale Record"(the oldest college humor magazine founded in 1872).

His cartoons and illustrations have been in New York magazine, Rolling Stone, The Nation, The New Yorker and countless other publications. He also painted the classic poster of an airplane tied in a knot for the 1980 movie, "Airplane." I really like his cartoony clay sculptures, which you can see along with many of his other works on his website.

What is your favorite pen to use?
No. 101 and 102 points in a pen holder.

Do you draw in pencil first and if so do you use a standard pencil or a mechanical one?
No. 2 pencils.

Do you do your coloring by hand or on the computer?
Both.

If you do your coloring by hand, what do you use?
Watercolor.

What type of paper do you use?
2 or 3 ply plate Bristol.

What thing(s) do you hate to draw?
Haven't found anything yet.

Do you buy your supplies from big chain art store catalogues/websites or a local one that you physically go to?
Local stores.

Are there any rituals that you do before starting to draw?
Sharpening pencil.

Do you listen to music while you draw and if so what genre?
Jazz or classical.

Did you read comics as a kid and if so what was your favorite?
MAD.

What is or was your favorite comic strip?
Pogo.

What was your favorite book as a child and do you still own a copy of it?
Still have my Alice in Wonderland.

Did you have any formal art training and if so where did you receive it?
Art Students League, Yale.

Do you feel that the Internet is a blessing or a curse?
Blessing.

Did either of your parents draw?
My father, Joe.

Who in your life is/was the most supportive of your art?
Joe.

Do you keep a sketchbook?
Yes.

Have you ever taught cartooning/drawing and if so did you enjoy the experience?
Yes, Yes.

Do you feel that talent or passion is more important in drawing?
Passion.

Do you collect anything and if so what?
No.

If you were an animated cartoon character who do you think you would be?
Superman.

Are you a righty or lefty?
Righty.

If you weren't an artist what would you want to do for work?
Fly.

In one or two sentences describe your drawing area.
Corner of cluttered room.

Do you play any musical instruments?
Piano, harmonica, both badly.

If you could give one piece of advice to someone who wants to pursue drawing as a career what would it be?
Practice makes perfect.

Who is your favorite artist?
Harvey Kurtzman.

Thank you very much for your time Mr. Grossman!

Up next is cartoonist, Keelan Parham.