The Mysteries Is an Adult Fable from Calvin and Hobbes Creator

Bill Watterson Returns: A Closer Look At His New Book And Artistic Journey

The Mysteries Is an Adult Fable from Calvin and Hobbes Creator

Nearly 28 years since the final strip of his wildly popular Calvin and Hobbes last graced newspaper comics, Bill Watterson is back in the headlines with his first new book since that wildly popular comic strip. This exciting return has sparked interest not just in his new work but also in the life and artistic evolution of one of the most beloved cartoonists of our time.

The Mysteries: A New Chapter in Watterson's Career

Watterson has partnered with caricaturist John Kascht on The Mysteries, which released recently. Described as a “fable for grown-ups” about “what lies beyond human understanding,” the book narrates the tale of a long-ago kingdom plagued by “unexplainable calamities.” The king sends his knights to investigate these mysterious events, making it an intriguing read for adults.

This book marks a rare new release for the famously private artist, who has kept a low profile since Calvin and Hobbes ended its 10-year run in 1995. The Washington Post describes Watterson as “the J.D. Salinger of the strips,” known for his scarcity of interviews and public appearances. His reemergence with this new work excites fans who have long awaited fresh content from him.

Watterson's Artistic Evolution and Public Image

Watterson’s father, Jim, shared insights into Bill's thoughts on fame, stating, “He would like it all to fade away. He doesn’t get his kicks by being famous. He was just doing something he enjoyed doing.” This sentiment highlights Watterson's desire for privacy and his focus on artistic integrity over celebrity. His mother, Kathryn, echoed this by saying, “He definitely wants to disappear.”

Fans are undoubtedly thrilled about Watterson’s first major book since Calvin and Hobbes, particularly since new material has been scarce for nearly three decades. This new chapter in his career reveals not just a continuation of his storytelling but also an evolution in his artistic expression.

A Tribute to Charles Schulz

Watterson has often credited Peanuts creator Charles Schulz as one of his greatest influences. He described Schulz as a hero from his childhood, noting, “His influence on my work and life is long and deep.” This admiration led Watterson to break his silence following Schulz's death in 2000 to pen a heartfelt tribute for The Los Angeles Times.

In his tribute, Watterson lauded Schulz for transforming the landscape of newspaper comics. He emphasized how Schulz’s simple yet expressive artwork revealed a profound understanding of cartooning’s strengths. Watterson stated, “Charles M. Schulz is in a league all his own,” acknowledging the unique talents required for successful comic-strip cartooning.

Exploring Watterson's Painting Hobby

After concluding Calvin and Hobbes, Watterson took up painting, focusing on landscapes of Ohio woods alongside his father. He explored various artistic styles, studying renowned artists like Willem de Kooning and Titian. Despite his talent, Watterson has chosen not to exhibit his work publicly, expressing a humble view of his painting endeavors.

He explained, “I don’t paint ambitiously. It’s all catch and release: just tiny fish that aren’t really worth the trouble to clean and cook.” A rumor suggests that Watterson, being a perfectionist, burned his first 500 paintings due to dissatisfaction with their quality. Comic historian Richard West remarked that while he isn't sure about the 500 figure, it’s likely he has destroyed many more than he has kept.

Watterson’s First Public Art Exhibition

Watterson unveiled one of his paintings to the public for the first time in 2011. The subject was an oil portrait of Petey Otterloop, an 8-year-old character from Richard Thompson's comic strip Cul de Sac. This unique artwork was part of an exhibit raising funds for Parkinson's research, showcasing Watterson's willingness to support causes close to his heart.

Reflecting on his approach, Watterson noted, “I thought it might be funny to paint Petey ‘seriously,’ as if this were the actual boy Richard hired as a model for his character.” This playful perspective highlights Watterson’s ability to blend humor with artistry, further endearing him to fans and fellow artists alike.

New Contributions to the Comic World

Watterson has rarely granted interviews but made an exception for the 2014 documentary Stripped, where he provided voiceover remarks and even created the film's poster. The poster features a cartoonist surprised by the news of newspaper decline, showcasing Watterson's characteristic humor and creativity.

Watterson expressed his excitement about this project, saying, “It sounded like fun and maybe something people wouldn’t expect.” His contributions to the documentary and the poster reveal a willingness to engage with the current state of comics while maintaining his unique artistic voice.

A Surprise Collaboration with Stephan Pastis

In June 2014, cartoonist Stephan Pastis featured Watterson's secret contributions in his comic strip Pearl Before Swine. Pastis portrayed himself as being instructed by a second-grader on how to draw, with Watterson's style cleverly integrated into the illustrations. This collaboration, initiated by Watterson, surprised many fans and showcased his playful spirit.

Pastis described the experience as “like getting a call from Bigfoot,” emphasizing the rarity of Watterson's public appearances. The collaboration not only raised funds for Parkinson's research in honor of Richard Thompson but also highlighted the unique camaraderie within the comic artist community.

Final Thoughts on Watterson’s Legacy

Bill Watterson's return to the public eye with The Mysteries illustrates his enduring creativity and commitment to storytelling. His journey from the iconic Calvin and Hobbes to this new venture reveals a depth of character and artistic exploration that continues to resonate with fans. As he navigates his artistic path, Watterson remains a beloved figure in the world of comics, with a legacy that inspires countless others.

As we look forward to what Watterson has in store next, his work serves as a reminder of the value of creativity, the importance of artistic integrity, and the joy that storytelling brings into our lives. Fans can only hope that this new release is the beginning of a new chapter in Watterson's remarkable career.

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The Mysteries Is an Adult Fable from Calvin and Hobbes Creator
The Mysteries Is an Adult Fable from Calvin and Hobbes Creator
Bill Watterson’s New Book The Calvin and Hobbes Creator is Back with
Bill Watterson’s New Book The Calvin and Hobbes Creator is Back with
Is Bill Watterson's surprise return with The Mysteries an allegory
Is Bill Watterson's surprise return with The Mysteries an allegory