Steve Bell on Cartooning

The Human Risk Podcast

How does one become a political cartoonist? And what lessons can we learn from their craft?
Episode Summary
In this episode, I sit down with legendary political cartoonist Steve Bell to explore the artistry and challenges behind his provocative work.
From his early struggles as a teacher to his meteoric rise as a satirical voice at The Guardian, Steve shares the experiences that shaped his unique style.
We delve into his creative process, the evolution of his iconic characters, and his reflections on a career that’s spanned over four decades.
Steve doesn’t hold back as he recounts his battles to maintain creative independence in an ever-changing media landscape.
Whether it’s navigating editorial constraints, mastering the balance between humour and sharp commentary, or sketching under the pressure of daily deadlines, Steve offers an honest and inspiring perspective on his craft.
Along the way, he shares fascinating anecdotes, like the evolution of David Cameron as a cartoon character and the artistic freedom he carved out for himself at The Guardian and how ultimately using that freedom led to him leaving the paper.
This conversation isn’t just for fans of Steve’s work but for anyone interested in creativity, resilience, and the power of satire to provoke and inspire. Join us as we explore the world of political cartooning through the eyes of one of its most iconic practitioners.
⚠️ Warning: this episode contains adult language and content, so listener discretion is advised.
Steve Bell Biography
Steve Bell is one of the most influential UK political cartoonists of our time, known for his incisive satire and striking illustrations. A graduate of Leeds College of Art, Steve initially trained as a teacher before realizing his passion for cartooning.
His first major break came with Time Out magazine, where his “Maggie’s Farm” strip skewered the Thatcher era. In 1981, he joined The Guardian, where his daily cartoons became a staple for readers and a thorn in the side of the powerful.
Over his illustrious career, Steve developed a reputation for blending biting political commentary with imaginative visuals, often pushing the boundaries of satire.
His work has appeared in numerous publications, and he remains a vocal advocate for creative freedom in an increasingly restrictive media environment.
AI-Generated Timestamped Key Points
[00:00:00] Introduction to Steve Bell and the origins of his artistic journey
[00:01:13] Steve’s early life, love for drawing, and transition from teaching to cartooning
[00:08:06] Struggles and lessons learned from teaching in Birmingham
[00:11:00] Early career milestones, including work with Time Out and The Guardian
[00:25:02] The evolution of "Maggie’s Farm" and creating caricatures of Margaret Thatcher
[00:34:15] Steve’s thoughts on the creative process and meeting deadlines
[00:52:39] How Steve conceptualises characters, like David Cameron as a condom
[00:57:18] Reflections on editorial constraints and creative independence
[01:10:12] Steve’s critiques of the modern media landscape and its treatment of political satire
[01:20:00] The enduring relevance of political cartoons in today’s world
Links
Topics we discuss on the show:

Margaret Thatcher: Former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom and a key figure in British politics during the 1980s, known for her conservative policies.
👉 Margaret Thatcher - Wikipedia

Thatcherism: The political ideology and economic policies associated with Margaret Thatcher, often satirized by Steve Bell.
👉 Thatcherism - Wikipedia
David Cameron: Former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, often depicted by Steve Bell as a cartoon caricature, including as a condom.
👉 David Cameron - Wikipedia
The Guardian: A British newspaper known for its progressive views and a platform for Steve Bell’s political cartoons for over 40 years.
👉 The Guardian - Wikipedia
Maggie’s Farm: A political comic strip by Steve Bell, published in Time Out, satirizing Margaret Thatcher and her government.
👉 Maggie’s Farm (Bob Dylan song) - Wikipedia (inspiration for the name)
The Red Star Parcel Service: A British rail-based parcel delivery service used by Steve Bell to send his cartoons to The Guardian during the pre-digital era.
👉 Red Star Parcels - Wikipedia
Social Democratic Party (SDP): A British political party formed in 1981 by former Labour MPs; its formation split the Labour vote during Margaret Thatcher’s tenure.
👉 Social Democratic Party (UK) - Wikipedia
Beano: A British children’s comic, often referenced by Steve Bell as an early influence on his cartooning style. 👉 Beano - Wikipedia
Jean-Luc Godard: An influential French filmmaker, admired by Steve Bell during his student years for his innovative cinematic style.
👉 Jean-Luc Godard - Wikipedia
New Musical Express (NME): A British music journalism publication where Steve Bell submitted work during his early career.
👉 NME - Wikipedia
Horse & Hound: A British weekly equestrian magazine established in 1884, covering horse sports such as eventing, dressage, show jumping, hunting, and racing, alongside advice on horse care and training. It gained pop culture recognition for its mention in the movie Notting Hill.
👉 Horse & Hound - Wikipedia
Time Out: A magazine featuring cultural events and news, where Steve Bell’s work first gained major recognition.
👉 Time Out (magazine) - Wikipedia
Liberty Leading the People: A painting by Eugène Delacroix frequently referenced by Steve Bell in his political cartoons.
👉 Liberty Leading the People - Wikipedia
Cartoons To see Steve’s archive visit his website: www.belltoons.co.uk
🖌️ Maggie’s Farm: https://www.belltoons.co.uk/bellworks/index.php/others/Maggie-s-Farm
🖌️ Thatcher, Heseltine & Howe: https://i.guim.co.uk/img/static/sys-images/Guardian/Pix/pictures/2011/5/24/1306251583026/Thatcher-Heseltine--Howe--010.jpg?width=1010&quality=45&auto=format&fit=max&dpr=2&s=610503e82cf033474cd6a6754281bf18
🖌️ David Cameron as a condom on a poster: https://www.belltoons.co.uk/bellworks/index.php/CLASSIC-CARTOONS/2951-12-1-10_CAMERONDOM
🖌️ David Cameron leaving office: https://www.belltoons.co.uk/bellworks/index.php/leaders/2016/4017-130716_CAMREMOVAL
🖌️ Donald Trump:
https://www.belltoons.co.uk/bellworks/index.php/leaders/2020/4564-051120_SHITEXPLOSION