ARTIST PROFILE
Robbie Adamson
“It’s hard to believe that StupidDummyHeds are twenty.” Rob’s been cartooning since high school. “They’ve come a long way in terms of depth and appeal but they’re still in the same old style.” Puns, spoonerisms and “old switcheroos” are the mechanisms he employs to create a laugh. Most panels require only a few seconds while others are complex and challenge the reader. Rob delights in this and is quick to attest that they are all “get-able.”
StupidDummyHeds panels have been published in magazines and newspapers over the years with varying regularity. Rob admits that as a younger cartoonist his efforts were inconsistent and there was a reason for that. “My cartoons were ok but getting better….predictable but with promise.” Fascinated by creating humour, Rob self-published his work as a means of testing his ability. Seven collections have been released with each book evolving as skills improved. Looking back the author cringes. “It was necessary….I suppose.”
With a small, devoted fan base, Rob kept his art alive through the nineties and into the millennium…and then…nothing. “I hit a slump that lasted four years… I started to grow up. It had to do with turning thirty.” Rob found himself against that notorious foe…artistic lethargy. But never fear comic fans! Through intense lifestyle simplification and a restructuring of priorities the DummyHeds are back in force! Since 2004 Rob has “fully immatured as a cartoonist.” Over 300 new panels exist with countless more in store.
Exhibits at LopLops, whitespace and recently in Victoria have been keeping Rob busy and the people amused. At his B.C. show he unveiled the Humour Mill - a contraption invented for the purpose of exhibiting 250 cartoons in only eight feet. With rotating galvanized goodness, the Humour Mill invites onlookers to “give it a whirl.” Look for it in December. You’ll be invited to own the home version entitled “Pokes With a Poignant Shtick: the best of StupidDummyHeds.”
