Gray Jolliffe — Humorous Cartoonist, Wicked Willie

Vastly experienced, effortlessly witty and a consummate professional, British cartoonist Gray Joliffe has been doodling for over 50 years, bringing smiles to the faces of millions through his Chloe & Co strip, published in the Daily Mail, and books such as his Wicked Willie series.

Based just outside London, Gray began as a copywriter in advertising and later rose to the role of creative director. Picking up a pen and combining his talent for wordplay with his drawing skills, he discovered his passion for illustration. While his cartoons show a natural ability to convey topical humour quickly and clearly, his creative output extends to huge canvases, footwear and even wooden sculptures.

Approach

Originally a master with coloured markers, today Gray scans his line drawings in, tweaking and colouring them in Photoshop. He usually works on six strips at a time, happily tackling tricky subjects from politics to sex with a candid and down-to-earth sense of humour.

Key Software

Photoshop

Style

Wiggly lines, exaggerated noses and round eyes are characteristic of Gray’s cartoon style. He has a keen ability to express emotions through facial expressions and although he doesn’t always use direct speech bubbles, there’s never any ambiguity about who is doing the talking.

Awards

1997 – Cartoonist of the Year 2010 – Cartoon Art Trust – Cartoon of the Year

Client list

Some of Gray’s clients include The Daily Mail, Cosmopolitan, Marketing Week, Creative Review, Hello and Prospect.

Robin hood with maid marion - Cartoon illustration by Gray Jolliffe