Meaning: This quote by David Low, a prominent political cartoonist, provides insight into the meticulous and time-consuming process of creating a single cartoon. Low's words shed light on the dedication and effort that goes into producing a piece of art that appears effortless and spontaneous to the viewer. The quote emphasizes the labor-intensive nature of cartooning and the careful attention to detail required to convey a powerful message through visual satire.

David Low was a New Zealand-born political cartoonist who gained international recognition for his work during the first half of the 20th century. He was known for his incisive and often controversial cartoons that tackled political and social issues with sharp wit and keen observation. Low's career spanned several decades, and his cartoons were published in leading newspapers and magazines, including the Evening Standard and the Manchester Guardian. His work had a significant impact on public opinion and political discourse, earning him a reputation as a master of his craft.

In the quote, Low describes the laborious process of creating a cartoon, highlighting the dedication and time investment required to produce a piece of art that resonates with its audience. The first part of the quote, "Making a cartoon occupied usually about three full days, two spent in labour," underscores the intensive nature of the creative process. Low's use of the word "labour" suggests that cartooning involves deliberate and focused effort, involving sketching, refining, and revising to capture the essence of a complex issue or event in a single image.

The second part of the quote, "and one in removing the appearance of labour," reveals an additional layer of complexity in the cartooning process. This statement conveys the notion that a successful cartoon must appear effortless and natural, despite the considerable effort invested in its creation. Low's insight into the "removing the appearance of labour" reflects the artist's skill in refining and polishing the final product to achieve a sense of spontaneity and ease, masking the painstaking work that went into its creation.

Low's quote provides valuable perspective on the art of cartooning and the dedication required to produce impactful visual commentary. It underscores the importance of skill, patience, and attention to detail in creating a compelling and thought-provoking cartoon. The quote also serves as a reminder of the often underappreciated effort and craftsmanship behind seemingly simple and lighthearted visual humor.

In conclusion, David Low's quote offers a compelling glimpse into the creative process of cartooning, highlighting the meticulous labor and artistry involved in producing a single cartoon. His words capture the essence of dedication and skill required to craft a visually engaging and intellectually stimulating form of expression. By revealing the careful balance between labor and the appearance of effortlessness, Low's quote provides a valuable perspective on the art of political cartooning and the enduring impact of visual satire on public discourse.