Paul Rigby, the Australian cartoonist whose lush cartoons were a fixture of the new York Post and Daily News in the 70s, has died at age 82.
He began drawing political cartoons for Perth’s afternoon Daily News in 1952 and, between 1960 and 1969, gained national prominence with his cartoons, which were also published in Sydney’s Daily Mirror, winning five Walkley Awards.
Despite his being a Victorian, West Australians claimed him as their own, and his cult following in the state remains to this day.
His drawings often included larrikin Aussies and big-busted blondes in quintessential Australian environments of the times: the pub, the back yard, the footy. Tucked away somewhere in the frame were his trademark urchin and dog.
Rupert Murdoch poached Rigby and took him to London, where he worked for The Sun. His drawings also appeared in News of The World.
Rigby won multiple awards for his cartoons, and was a memver of the Order of Australia. In his later years he opened a gallery for his paintings and cartoons — you can see some photos and read an account of a visit here.
Wow, I grew up with those cartoons in New York during the 70’s and 80’s.
Remember he hid a little man and a dog in his drawings?
Friends and I would have contests to find them the fastest.
Peace,
Gary
Farewell to the ozzie icon, the little dog and boy will be missed
Paul and I had many a drink at Costello’s in NYC – when he worked at the Daily News. We shared a few more in South Street when he was at the Post.
He was a beautiful guy and I knew no one like him in my life. He was a wordly fellow and could speak in great detail about most any subject.
We got to know each other very well as he produced the art work for many of the NYC Alternate Side of the Street Parking Calendars I published. He also did the artwork for our Calling In Sick To Work Calendars and Procrastinator Calendars. I am hoping to see him again one day…………………
Love you Paul.
Glen
Each year he would send to his friends and family a beautfiul Christmas card depicting life wherever he might be.
Back in our Elmont, New York days, I remember so often that my husband and little 7 year old daughter would be the first to find the little man & dog!! We were very saddened to learn of Paul’s passing. He brought us so many days of laughter & entertainment through his drawings in the Post. May you rest in peace!! Truman & Beverly Wilson
RIGBY WAS AND IS MY START TO EDITORIAL CARTOONING. MY START AS AN ARTIST,AND THE BEGINING OF MY FIRST CARTOON FOR MAGAZINES AWARD FORM COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY PRESS ASSOCIATION. I WILL AND NEVER THE LESSONS OF A TRUE MASTER. REST IN PEACE IN CARTOON LAND.
FORGET
Am in possession of framed artwork by Paul Rigby dated 1983 titled the Keel Revealed, and can find NO INFORMATION regarding same.If anyone can direct me to someone that can substantiate this work I would sincerely appreciate it. Always looked foward to finding the little boy and the dog in the New York Post. contact 401-688-2985