Flinders Ranges artist uses cartoons to cut to the core

For more than 35 years, artist and Hawker resident George Aldridge has drawn cartoons for the media, to bring a dash of colour to stories.

From Donald Trump to sheep shearing, George's private collection of cartoons is in the thousands and this launch will help to get many unseen pieces into the community.

With a rural focus and new-found love, and talent for drawing cattle, George has built an impressive portfolio through freelancing, working in the public sector and attending events, such as the Northern Territory Cattlemen's Association conference.

"The subjects interest me. From biosecurity to trade issues, it is interesting stuff and I thoroughly enjoy being a part of events in the agriculture industry," he said.

"Cartooning is a part of me and I love it because most of the time it brings happiness to others.

"I have been drawing since I was child, we did not have TV. I have done it every day since."

The Flinders Ranges is George's "heartland" after a trip to the region as a Norwood High student with his class teacher Dick Lang, exposed him to the bliss and colourfulness of rural life.

Contrary to George's talent as an astute cartoonist and painter, the class trip was for "non-achievers class" but lucky for him, it began a lifelong career and connection to the region.

After high school, George studied fine art painting and took on an artist and designer role at the SA Museum for almost a decade.

"I did a lot of cartoon work on political aspects of the public service but it almost got me kicked out there eventually," he said.

"I then freelanced and dabbled in cartooning for unions and working overseas in London."

As a young man, George had a moment when he realised, "cartooning did something for people".

"Cartooning is such a great medium, I like making people laugh and most of the time, cartooning does that," he said.

"But also, cartoons cut through a lot of noise. You do not need slabs of information to tell people the story.

"So, when it works, it really works."

George also saw cartooning as a way to deliver messages and express himself to friends, family and his community.

"I wake up everyday and draw. I will never stop," he said.

Inspiration for George's work comes from many places but the shearing shed has largely contributed to his love of creating cartoons for the agriculture industry.

For many years, George has worked as a roustabout and musterer throughout the Flinders Ranges.

"I love the sheds and the atmosphere. I have made cartoons for shearers too," he said.

George is never without paper and pencils, just in case an idea springs to mind.

"I never leave the house without it," he said.

This dedication undoubtedly led George to being named the Flinders Council's artist in residency choice for the coming year.

Part of the artist residency will involve working with schools and opening his studio doors.

Painting is also a true escape for George.

"When I am not cartooning, I am also painting in the Flinders Ranges landscape, it is a form of meditation for me," he said.

"I will paint and draw for the rest of my life."