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Image Not Available for Felch, Bastard Surf Sprog of the New Millennium
Felch, Bastard Surf Sprog of the New Millennium
Image Not Available for Felch, Bastard Surf Sprog of the New Millennium

Felch, Bastard Surf Sprog of the New Millennium

Maker
Date2000-2001
Object number00033562
NameCartoon
MediumWatercolour, pantone marker, paper, framed
DimensionsSight: 405 x 295 mm
Overall: 540 x 760 x 25 mm, 2.4 kg
ClassificationsArt
Credit LineANMM Collection
DescriptionThis cartoon strip 'Olympic Felch' by Steve Cakebread was completed in watercolour and Pantone marker. The character of Felch, the 'Bastard surf sprong of the new millennium'', was born in 1998, and published in the Australian Surfing Life magazine from the following year. The 'Olympic Felch' cartoon traces the opening of the Sydney 2000 Olympics and the trials and tribulations of elite Australian swimmer Ian Thorpe.History'Felch' follows the tradition of Tony Edward's creation 'Captain Goodvibes', casting a cynical eye on the world of surfing, sport and popular culture. 'Felch' was conceived in July 1998 and first published in the January 1999 edition of 'Australian Surfing Life'. Felch is an anti-hero, a lanky beach bum with receeding hair and milk bottle glasses who turns his back on 'respectable' life. Steve Cakebreads studied at the South Australian School of Arts. His work was influenced by his passion for surfing and the creative melting pot of living in a share household with a sculptor, film-maker, performance artist, graphic designer and computer enthusiast. After a brief stint at the Melbourne Age he began drawing a daily pocket cartoon, followed by work with Hot Tuna. After moving to Sydney he freelanced, contributing to the Bulletin and other publications.SignificanceThis cartoon documenting an important point in Australia's history and featuring gold medal swimmer Ian Thorpe, is presented with the irreverent humour associated with surfing culture.