Distinctly entertaining book includes many of Jerm’s best
cartoons from the last year. (Review by Keith Millar)
For many, one of the highlights of their daily newspaper is
the political cartoon. The insightful and acerbic comments on the political or
social events of the day are usually good for a chuckle and often have a more
serious edge which offers food for thought.
South Africa has over the years produced many highly skilled
and talented cartoonists who have entertained the public with their unique
drawings. Standing tall amongst these is Jeremy Nel – otherwise known as Jerm –
whose work has appeared in several offline and online publications such as
Sunday Times, Time, The Star, City Press, Beeld, The New Age, The Times,
Rolling Stone, EWN and, most recently, at eNCA.
Jerm has released the second compilation of his work in a
distinctly entertaining book entitled Comedy
Club. Including many of his best cartoons from the last year, the book is
topical and is pertinent to the political and social events which have
dominated news headlines in the recent past.
He takes no prisoners and everyone from our own government
to our opposition parties are targets for his caustic humour. Presidents Zuma
and Barak Obama receive special attention and feature in many of the cartoons.
The Israel/Palestine conflict also features prominently.
Jerm’s precise analysis of the events of the day and perceptive
commentary provide a humorous way to observe the buffoonery which is politics
in our country.
It must be noted that his approach can be very hard-hitting
and some of his cartoons have a serious shock element.
Cape Town based Jeremy Nel, who never received any formal
training, began his cartooning career in 2005 after leaving the corporate
world. Since then he has won several awards for his uncompromising and
intuitive work. His quirky and provocative drawings are digitally produced and
have a lively watercolour look.
Comedy Club has
been released just in time for the Christmas rush and would make a good gift
for anyone who is interested in current affairs. It would sit comfortably on
the recipient’s coffee table where they could dip into it from time to time for
a good chuckle, and possibly a serious moment of reflection.
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