World Record Holders

Universally beloved cartoonist Guy Delisle showcases a careerspanning collection of his work with a sly sense of humor and warm characterization. Before Delisle became an international superstar with his globehopping travelogues he was an animator experimenting with the comics form. Always aware of the elasticity of the human form and honing his keen observer’s eye young Delisle created hilarious set pieces. World Record Holders ranges from wistful childhood nostalgia to chagrined postfame encounters touching on formally ambitious visual puns and gutbusting whatifs. Delisle again and again shows how life is both exhilarating and embarrassing. Delisle visits an exhibition of his work in another country and is confronted by an angry spouse who blames him for destroying her marriage. A juvenile game of Bows and Arrows turns menacing as arrows shot straight up in the air turn into barely visible missiles of death. A coded message from space creates different reactions from different people—debates dance festivals gallery shows. Translated by Helge Dascher.