Richard Thompson (cartoonist)

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Richard Thompson (1957 – 2016) was an American cartoonist and illustrator, best known for his syndicated comic strip Cul de Sac. His work has been widely acclaimed for its humor, artistic quality, and insightful commentary on everyday life.

Early Life and Education

Richard Thompson was born in 1957 in Maryland. He developed an interest in drawing and cartooning at an early age. Thompson attended the University of Maryland, College Park, where he studied art and honed his skills in illustration and cartooning.

Career

Thompson began his professional career as an illustrator and cartoonist for various publications. His work appeared in The Washington Post, where he contributed illustrations and editorial cartoons. He also worked for The New Yorker, National Geographic, and other prominent magazines.

Cul de Sac

In 2004, Thompson created the comic strip Cul de Sac, which was initially published in the Washington Post Magazine. The strip gained popularity for its witty and charming portrayal of the Otterloop family, particularly the young protagonist, Alice Otterloop. In 2007, Cul de Sac was syndicated by Universal Press Syndicate, reaching a wider audience and earning critical acclaim.

Other Works

In addition to Cul de Sac, Thompson created the weekly feature Richard's Poor Almanac, which ran in The Washington Post from 1997 to 2012. This feature showcased Thompson's unique humor and artistic style, often providing satirical takes on current events and cultural trends.

Awards and Recognition

Richard Thompson received numerous awards for his work, including the Reuben Award for Outstanding Cartoonist of the Year in 2011, presented by the National Cartoonists Society. He was also honored with the Milton Caniff Lifetime Achievement Award in 2015.

Personal Life

Thompson was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 2009, which eventually led to his retirement from cartooning in 2012. Despite his illness, he continued to be an influential figure in the world of cartooning and illustration. Richard Thompson passed away on July 27, 2016.

Legacy

Richard Thompson's work continues to be celebrated for its artistic excellence and humor. Cul de Sac remains a beloved comic strip, and his influence can be seen in the work of many contemporary cartoonists.

See Also

• Cul de Sac
• The Washington Post
• National Cartoonists Society
• Reuben Award
• Parkinson's disease