William “Bubba” Flint is a prolific cartoonist with over 35 years in the industry, having worked for over seven different newspapers and illustrated over 20 children’s books. His works reflect the time we live in, and is never afraid to make fun of something.

Flint, an SMU graduate, has worked for everything from the Muppets to McDonalds to the Dallas Cowboys, and everything in between. Flint opened his seminar by stating that he was on several government lists, and that if, as a political cartoonist, you aren’t on at least two, you’re not doing your job well enough. 

His cartoons focus on five elements – symbolization, exaggeration, irony, labeling and analogy. Each of these elements are as important as the last. Symbolization involves using different objects, often clothing or tools, to represent the person he’s parodying. Exaggeration involves highlighting certain aspects of his characters, such as their eyes or mouth. Irony in Flint’s work will often involve a character being in a ridiculous, but realistic, situation. Labeling is used so that the reader can differentiate each character, and analogy is used to both cleverly deliver his message and make for a more interesting read.

Flint’s process for making comics begins with research. He finds an idea, whether it be a big event, a political movement, or just something he wants to address. He then begins with research. Once he has a rough idea of what he wants written, he begins his sketching, laying out the idea on paper. Once he has his page sketched out, he adds words to the drawing and pencils the final draft. Finally, he adds color, ink and cleans it up. Overall, this process could take anywhere from 5 to 6 hours. 

Flint has worked for several big names, Jerry Jones, Brian Henson, and McDonalds, just to name a few. Throughout his works, he never hesitates to make fun of anyone or anything. For example, a common theme among his works is how bad the Dallas Cowboys have been playing, or how much inflation has been rising.

Flint has also illustrated 22 children’s books, such as Marie’s Pet Shop, Midnight Mess-Monsters, and Huck’s Ten Point Buck. These books have been highly rated among parents for their fun visuals and unique stories. Flint’s ability to balance light-hearted humor and serious, real-world issues allows him to deliver engaging political satire and children’s media, as well as impactful presentations.

Bubba Flint delivered a very entertaining seminar, filled with both interesting facts and humor, giving a deep insight into the world of comics.