Clay Bennett (born January 20, 1958) is an American editorial cartoonist known for his liberal viewpoints and sharp political satire. Currently working for the Chattanooga Times Free Press, he won the 2002 Pulitzer Prize for Editorial Cartooning.
Early Life and Education
Clay Bennett was born in Clinton, South Carolina. He graduated from the University of North Alabama in 1980. During his college years, he developed a passion for political cartoons, which would define his career.[1]
Career
Early Career
Bennett began his professional career working as a staff artist for the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette and the Fayetteville Times (NC). In 1981, he joined the St. Petersburg Times as an editorial cartoonist, where he remained for 13 years before being dismissed in 1994. His dismissal sparked controversy, with some attributing it to his outspoken liberal stance, though his editor, Phil Gailey, denied any political motivation.
Later Career
After leaving the St. Petersburg Times, Bennett worked for The Christian Science Monitor from 1997 to 2007. He later joined the Chattanooga Times Free Press in 2007, where he continues to draw five cartoons a week.
Style and Themes
Bennett's work is characterized by its minimalist, thought-provoking style, often relying on visual metaphors rather than detailed illustrations. His cartoons frequently address social justice issues, political corruption, and government policies, reflecting a strong liberal perspective.
Awards and Recognition
Bennett has been widely recognized for his work, having been a Pulitzer Prize finalist multiple times and winning the prestigious award in 2002. His numerous accolades include:
- Pulitzer Prize for Editorial Cartooning (2002)
- National Headliner Award (2024, 2023, 2016, 2014, 2004, 2000, 1999)
- Sigma Delta Chi Award (2019, 2017, 2001)
- Thomas Nast Award, Overseas Press Club (2017, 2007, 2005)
- Robert F. Kennedy Journalism Award (2007)
- Clifford K. and James T. Berryman Award for Editorial Cartooning (2014)
- Green Eyeshade Award for Editorial Cartoons (2019, 2018, 2016, 2014, 2012, 2011, 2010, 2009)
- John Fischetti Award for Editorial Cartooning (2005, 2001)
- National Cartoonists Society Award for Editorial Cartoons (2017, 2002)
- United Nations/Ranan Lurie Political Cartoon Award (2011)
Finalist Nominations:
- Pulitzer Prize for Illustrated Reporting and Commentary (2024)
- NCS Award for Editorial Cartoons (2022, 2018, 2014, 2013)
- Herblock Prize (2014)
Professional Associations
- President of the Association of American Editorial Cartoonists (AAEC)
- Member of the National Cartoonists Society
Personal Life
Clay Bennett resides in Chattanooga, Tennessee, with his wife, Cindy Procious, a professional artist. His work is syndicated internationally through Counterpoint Licensing and Syndication.
Legacy and Impact
Clay Bennett's editorial cartoons continue to spark debate and provide insightful commentary on contemporary political issues. His minimalistic yet impactful style has earned him a place among the leading editorial cartoonists in the United States.
External links
References
- ↑ Alicia C. Shepard. "Open season on editorial cartoonists?" American Journalism Review. Dec 1994 v16 n10 p15.