Norman Hetherington

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Norman Frederick Hetherington (1944)

Norman Hetherington (29 May 1921 – 6 December 2010) was an Australian artist, teacher, cartoonist, puppeteer, and puppet designer. He is best known for his work on the Australian children's television program Mr. Squiggle.

Early Life and Education

Norman Hetherington was born in Lismore, New South Wales, Australia. He developed an interest in art and puppetry at a young age. Hetherington attended the Julian Ashton Art School in Sydney, where he honed his skills in drawing and painting.

Career

Cartoonist

Hetherington began his career as a cartoonist, contributing to various Australian newspapers and magazines. His work was featured in publications such as The Bulletin and The Sydney Morning Herald. He was known for his satirical and humorous style, which earned him a loyal following.

Puppetry and Mr. Squiggle

In 1959, Hetherington created the character Mr. Squiggle, a marionette with a pencil for a nose who could draw pictures from squiggles sent in by children. The show, also titled Mr. Squiggle, became a beloved part of Australian children's television and ran for over 40 years. Hetherington not only designed and operated the puppets but also provided the voice for Mr. Squiggle.

Teaching

In addition to his work in television and cartooning, Hetherington was a dedicated teacher. He taught art and puppetry at various institutions, sharing his expertise and inspiring a new generation of artists and puppeteers.

Personal Life

Norman Hetherington was married to Margaret Hetherington, who was also involved in the production of Mr. Squiggle. The couple had two children. Hetherington passed away on 6 December 2010, leaving behind a legacy of creativity and innovation in the fields of art and puppetry.

Legacy

Norman Hetherington's contributions to Australian culture, particularly through Mr. Squiggle, have left a lasting impact. His work continues to be celebrated and remembered by fans and artists alike.

See Also

• Mr. Squiggle
• Australian children's television series
• Julian Ashton Art School
• The Bulletin (Australian periodical)
• The Sydney Morning Herald