Exploring Calvin and Hobbes

Exploring Calvin and Hobbes

“For all their seeming simplicity, the expressive possibilities of comics rival those of any other art form.” ~ Bill Watterson

Exploring Calvin and Hobbes revisits the beloved comic strip created by Bill Watterson from 1985 to 1995. This exhibit explores his mastery of the comic strip art form through engaging characters, thoughtful writing and creative layouts. 

The exhibition will feature original Calvin and Hobbes daily and Sunday strips as well as specialty pieces by Watterson from his collection of more than 3,000 originals housed at the Billy Ireland Cartoon Library & Museum at The Ohio State University. Calvin and Hobbes appeared in 2,400 newspapers worldwide at the height of its popularity. 

Watterson won the National Cartoonists Society’s prestigious Reuben Award for “Outstanding Cartoonist of the Year” in both 1986 and 1988. It also includes original art by cartoonists who influenced Watterson, chosen by the artist from the BICLM’s collection, such as Charles Schulz, George Herriman, Jim Borgman, Berkeley Breathed, Garry Trudeau, and Ralph Steadman.

Six-year-old Calvin, named after the 16th-century theologian John Calvin, has a vivid imagination; an aversion to homework, chores and girls; and a penchant for discussing the meaning of life. Hobbes, named for the 17th-century British philosopher Thomas Hobbes, appears to most of the strips’ characters as a stuffed animal, but from Calvin’s perspective, he is a living, breathing—sometimes even dangerous—tiger. He’s also a best friend, a playmate, a co-conspirator and occasionally the voice of reason. The strip follows the two as they navigate the bumpy ride of life.

Exploring Calvin and Hobbes will delight fans of the strip, which still remains popular with readers of all ages. 

This Exhibition was curated by Jenny E. Robb, Head Curator for the Billy Ireland Cartoon Library & Museum. This traveling exhibition was organized by The Ohio State University Libraries’ Billy Ireland Cartoon Library & Museum. The book, Exploring Calvin and Hobbes: An Exhibition Catalog. This beautiful companion book features an in-depth interview with Bill Watterson and is available through the publisher.