Jackie Ormes. From Jackieormes.com website
Meet Jackie Ormes. I discovered her on NPR about 6 years ago from one of their audios. At the time, I was toying with the idea to do an educational graphic novel and got a little education myself. That’s what NPR tends to do.
Well, I was intrigued and got to nosing around on the web, looking for more information about this Ormes woman. I ended up buying a book with her work. She was the first syndicated African American cartoonist in her day. Now, I ended up giving the book away as a gift ’cause I was inviting someone to do a presentation. I sure do miss that book ’cause I haven’t re-purchased it yet but I will on Amazon this weekend.
Anyhow, Mrs. Ormes’ character was kinda modeled after herself. The little girl in the cartoon below was quick-witted and as central to the content as the adult characters. I’m rather inspired by Ormes in developing my own work, although our content will be different, this being a different time and all. Since women aren’t dominating this area of the arts, her accomplishments were significant.
Just thought I’d share that with it being Women’s History Month and all. If you’re spotlighting a woman of substance this month, please share. Thanks for visiting and sharing.
From the Jackieormes.com website
All Things Totsy and Beatrice 
Fascinating video and cartoon. I had never heard of this woman. Interesting to see her cartoons on the drafting table and to see the dolls. I think you mentioned that you had considered an educational cartoon. Ever think about doing a graphic novel?
Hugs from Ecuador,
Kathy
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I found that seeing her work and the doll were interesting also. I don’t know if I’d go in the way of education at the moment. I am looking at a graphic novel for Beatrice. She’s the main focus now, which she’s overly thrilled about.
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I think I’ve seen the cartoon once before but I really didn’t “notice” it or know anything about Jackie Ormes. Thank you for the introduction!
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You’re welcome. It was interesting to find her. Hoping to discover some other women folk I can share here but selfishly, they’ll more than likely be women in the arts.
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Totsy, thank you for sharing. I had no idea and had never heard of Jackie Ormes, but she sounds most interesting. I found the story on NPR, and thought I’d share it with you and your readers. Here’s the link: http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=93029000
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It is quite interesting. Maybe subconsciously, her work led me to creating Beatrice. I would like to think so. 🙂
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Hey Monica — thanks for sharing the NPR link. Totsy, thanks so much for sharing this.
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You’re welcome. It’s a good article and the book is a treat for your collection. 🙂
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Amazing woman!
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I certainly thought so.
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Go for it boo!!…..you will be great, sassy, spunky and all 😉
Have a blessed day!
JC
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I do believe I can pull off all of those adjectives and whatnot. Thanks for the vote of confidence. Blessing to you.
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How cool!
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Yep. Just like yourself.
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Thank you, this was fascinating. What we learn when we look.
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