Michael Ramirez of Investors Business Daily has won the 2008 Pulitzer Prize for editorial cartooning:
Awarded to Michael Ramirez of Investor’s Business Daily for his provocative cartoons that rely on originality, humor and detailed artistry.
Also nominated as finalists in this category were: Tom Batiuk of King Features for a sequence in his cartoon strip “Funky Winkerbean” that portrays a woman’s poignant battle with breast cancer, and Clay Bennett of The Christian Science Monitor for his distinctive cartoons marked by sharp focus and pungent simplicity.
Tom has a full run down on pertinent links including this interview with Ramirez:
“My approach is to have a powerful image along with a significant statement,” said the Investor’s Business Daily (IBD) cartoonist, when reached by phone this afternoon. “It’s great to be funny, too, but the most important element is the message — to have an impact and make people think.”
Ramirez added: “Editorial cartooning is an extension of journalism, not just entertainment.”
Ramirez deserves it. But… Funky Winkerbean?!
One of the best editorial cartoonists around. He deserved it.
Just wanted to say how much we love your political cartoons. They really brighten up my day especially now when there is so much sad news about our financial holdings. I have e-mailed our AJC in Atlanta and told them that they must carry your cartoons! Keep drawing; you’re great. Your friend and art teacher, Mary Valley
love this one i try to draw political cartoons but its always about anarchy