Description
Modern spot cartoons, sometimes referred to as gag or single panel, can be found in newspapers and magazines. Generally, the cartoon is a simple line drawing, usually black and white, accompanied with a concise hand-lettered or typeset caption. There is a fine balance between the drawing and caption where the caption improves the drawing, and the drawing improves the caption. The punch lines are crafted to make their viewer laugh. Common themes are talking animals, awkward moments with family and the opposite sex, and uncomfortable social situations.
Some of the best spot cartoons can be found in The New Yorker and Playboy. They can also be found on greeting cards, cocktail napkins, and coffee mugs.