kruishoutem

25th Euro-kartoenale Kruishoutem

Hats Off! Ian David Marsden cartoon submissions to the 25th Euro-kartoenale Kruishoutem

As a cartoonist, there’s something magical about taking a theme and letting it evolve into visual storytelling. For the 25th Euro-kartoenale Kruishoutem, this year’s theme—“The Hat – Hats Off”—offered endless opportunities to blend humor, satire, and creativity.

I’m thrilled to be one of the 16 participating cartoonists from France, contributing five original cartoons to this international cartoon competition. Each of my works explores hats not just as accessories, but as powerful symbols of culture, evolution, and individuality.

Exploring the Evolution of Hats Through Cartoons

From ancient alien theories to playful nods at fairy tales, my cartoons for this year’s Euro-kartoenale cover a wide range of interpretations:

• “Crown Wars” – Two kings engage in a comical power struggle, measuring their wealth and influence with ever-expanding crowns that defy logic (and balance).

Cartoon of two regal figures with oversized, ornate crowns, highlighting themes of greed and one-upmanship, created by Ian David Marsden for the European Cartoon Center.
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Marsden Illustration