Description
Book Synopsis: The comic strip Gordo was published in U.S. newspapers for forty-four years (1941-1985). For almost all of this run its creator Gus Arriola was the most visible American of Mexican descent working as a syndicated cartoonist. At its peak Gordo appeared in 270 newspapers and was the more widely circulated and longer-running of only two American comic strips set in Mexico.
Gordo recounted the humorous adventures and amorous preoccupations of a portly Mexican bean farmer, whose name, Gordo, means "fat." Among the supporting cast were his perspicacious nephew, the menagerie of their farm animals, and citizens of their village. Originally, the characters played to the stereotypes of Mexicans as portrayed by Hollywood and in popular culture.
When Arriola realized that in the U.S. his comic strip was the only mass-circulation medium that portrayed Mexicans, he began taking pains to reflect accurately the traditions south of the border. Gordo was transformed forthwith, and its chubby hero became, more by accident than by plan, an ambassador for Mexico and its culture.
Converting his protagonist to a tour guide in the 1960s, Arriola was able to regale American readers with many aspects of Mexican folklore, history, and art in an entertaining but informative fashion, winning awards and accolades for his efforts. Because animals and insects in the strip were among its stellar attractions, Arriola was creatively positioned to stump for ecological concerns. He was one of the earliest in popular culture to do so.
Profusely illustrated with runs of the strip from various periods, the book traces Arriola's artistic evolution and celebrates the cartoonist as a supremely inventive stylist whose artwork always displays design qualities unusual for a comic strip. His stunning Sunday fiestas of color and design are exemplified with eight pages of full-color reproductions.
This is the first book focused exclusively on Gus Arriola and the first that extensively examines the Mexican milieu as portrayed in American comics.
Details
Introducing Accidental Ambassador Gordo: The Comic Strip Art of Gus Arriola! Immerse yourself in the humorous adventures and cultural impact of Gordo, the lovable Mexican bean farmer. For over four decades, Gus Arriola captivated readers with his syndicated comic strip, becoming one of the most visible Mexican-American cartoonists of his time. Now, you can experience the magic of Gordo with this beautifully illustrated book.
With Gordo appearing in a staggering 270 newspapers at its peak, it's no wonder why this comic strip became a beloved favorite. Through Gordo's escapades, Arriola not only entertained readers but also became an accidental ambassador for Mexico and its rich traditions. Witness the transformation of Gordo as Arriola strived to accurately portray the cultural heritage of Mexico, shedding stereotypes along the way.
From Mexican folklore to history and art, Gordo became a tour guide for American readers, enlightening them in an engaging and informative fashion. Arriola's artistic evolution shines through the vivid illustrations featured in this book, showcasing his unmatched creativity and design skills. Marvel at the stunning Sunday fiestas of color and captivating storytelling that cemented Gordo's place in comic strip history.
But Accidental Ambassador Gordo isn't just about entertainment and aesthetics. Arriola was also a trailblazer in raising ecological awareness through his comic strip. By incorporating animals and insects into the stories, he creatively brought attention to environmental issues before it became a mainstream concern. His impact in popular culture cannot be overstated, and this book celebrates his efforts and contributions in a comprehensive and compelling manner.
Don't miss your chance to own this remarkable book that delves into the life and art of Gus Arriola and examines the Mexican milieu portrayed in American comics like never before. Immerse yourself in the world of Gordo and discover the true essence of this iconic comic strip. Order your copy of Accidental Ambassador Gordo: The Comic Strip Art of Gus Arriola now and embark on an unforgettable journey!
Click here to order Accidental Ambassador Gordo: The Comic Strip Art of Gus Arriola.
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