Vermont’s New Cartoonist Laureate to Create Book on State’s Art History
Vermont’s commitment to the art of comics continues to deepen, and with a unique twist. Stephen R. Bissette, a Windsor resident and a name synonymous with groundbreaking work in the horror comics genre, has been appointed the state’s sixth Cartoonist Laureate. The announcement, made jointly by the Vermont Arts Council and the Center for Cartoon Studies (CCS) in White River Junction, signals not just a continuation of this special recognition – Vermont is the only state to have a cartoonist laureate – but a potential shift in how the role is approached. Bissette, unlike his predecessors, intends to leave a tangible legacy: a comprehensive book documenting the history of cartoonists within the state.
The path to accepting the laureateship wasn’t immediate for Bissette. Having retired from teaching at CCS in 2020, he was content focusing on personal projects, including a successful Kickstarter campaign for a deluxe collection of his “Tyrant” comics featuring a Tyrannosaurus rex. However, a series of heartfelt messages from former students – a simple thank you email, a thoughtful book sent in the mail – prompted a reevaluation. These gestures, he explained in an interview with the Valley News, felt like a call to action. He approached CCS co-founder James Sturm with a condition: securing grant funding to support the creation of a book celebrating Vermont’s cartooning heritage.
This ambition to produce a book sets Bissette apart. Previous laureates have largely focused on outreach, traveling and speaking engagements throughout Vermont. While those efforts are valuable, Bissette envisions a lasting contribution, a resource for future generations of cartoonists and enthusiasts. His own career is a testament to the power of the medium. He rose to prominence in the 1980s co-creating and illustrating “The Saga of the Swamp Thing” with Alan Moore, a series that revitalized the horror comics landscape. Beyond that iconic work, Bissette played a pivotal role in the 1988 “Northampton Summit,” a landmark meeting that led to the creation of the Creator’s Bill of Rights, empowering independent comic artists with greater control over their intellectual property.
Bissette’s connection to Vermont runs deep. A native of Duxbury, he’s lived in the state for most of his life, returning to Windsor with his wife, Marjory, in 2006. He’s not just a product of Vermont’s artistic community; he’s a keen observer and chronicler of its cultural landscape, as evidenced by his previous book, “Green Mountain Cinema,” a study of Vermont films and filmmakers. He recognizes a unique creative spirit within the state, a blend of hard work, independence, and a willingness to embrace alternative paths – qualities that resonate with the demanding craft of cartooning.
He points to early influences like “What we have is Vermont,” a 1953 historical overview by George Merkle, and the work of Pulitzer Prize-winning editorial cartoonist Jeff Danziger, whose Vermont-based comic strip graced local newspapers during Bissette’s youth. He also recalls a show at the Helen Day Art Center in Stowe featuring a family quilt rendered as a sequential narrative, demonstrating the diverse and often unexpected ways cartooning manifests itself within the state. The question, as Bissette poses, is whether there’s something inherent in Vermont’s character that attracts and nurtures cartoonists like Alison Bechdel, Ed Koren, Rick Veitch, and James Kochalka, all figures who have left an indelible mark on the art form.
The demands of cartooning – the meticulous process of writing, sketching, inking, lettering, and coloring – align with Vermont’s work ethic. And, as Sturm aptly puts it, winter in Vermont is “cartooning season,” providing the ideal conditions for focused, indoor creativity. Bissette, now 71, remains remarkably active, contributing bonus features to Blu-Ray releases and overseeing the success of his “Tyrant” Kickstarter campaign, which has already surpassed $200,000 in funding.
The official appointment ceremony will take place on April 9th at the Vermont State House in Montpelier. However, the real celebration is scheduled for April 11th at Springfield Cinemas 3, Bissette’s favorite local theater, with a screening of “Constantine,” the 2005 film based on the character he co-created. Proceeds from the 12:30 PM screening will benefit the production lab at the Center for Cartoon Studies. Tickets are available through the cinema’s website, springfieldcinemas3.com.
Navigating Vermont’s Creative Landscape: A Local Resource Guide
Given my background in cultural journalism and a long-standing interest in the arts, I recognize that a project like Bissette’s book on Vermont cartoonists will inevitably spark renewed interest in the broader creative ecosystem of the state. For residents of Vermont, or those considering a move to the Green Mountain State, understanding the resources available to support artistic endeavors is crucial. If you’re inspired by Bissette’s work and want to explore your own creative passions, or if you’re a cartoonist seeking professional support, here are three types of local professionals you should consider connecting with:
- Arts & Culture Legal Counsel: Vermont’s arts scene is vibrant, but navigating copyright law, contract negotiations, and intellectual property rights can be complex. Gaze for an attorney specializing in arts and entertainment law, with a proven track record of representing artists and creative businesses. Prioritize firms that offer clear, accessible explanations of legal concepts and a commitment to protecting artists’ rights.
- Little Business & Financial Advisors for Creatives: Turning a passion into a sustainable career requires sound financial planning. Seek out a financial advisor experienced in working with self-employed artists and creative entrepreneurs. They should be familiar with the unique challenges of irregular income, project-based work, and the demand for long-term financial security. Look for advisors who offer services tailored to the needs of the creative sector, such as tax planning, retirement savings, and grant writing assistance.
- Graphic Design & Branding Specialists: For cartoonists and visual artists, a strong brand identity is essential for attracting audiences and building a loyal following. A skilled graphic designer can help you develop a cohesive visual style, create compelling marketing materials, and establish a professional online presence. Focus on designers with experience in the comics or illustration industries, and who understand the importance of visual storytelling.
Ready to find trusted professionals? Browse our complete directory of top-rated arts and creative experts in the Vermont area today.