Michael Leunig on genius, the child, Mr Curly and Donald Trump

7 August 2016 by Sam Smith
Michael Leunig opened up to interviewer David Leser. Photo: SCU/Natalie Foord.
Michael Leunig opened up to interviewer David Leser. Photo: SCU/Natalie Foord.

 

The skies were brighter on Sunday morning and not just because the rain was clearing. Michael Leunig was in the Feros Marquee with skilled interviewer David Leser.

The gems of wisdom came thick and fast, with the twitterati of the festival is full swing.

David Leser started with an inquiry into genius and intuition.

The Curly Pyjama Letters. Photo: SCU/Jeanti St Clair
The Curly Pyjama Letters. Photo: SCU / St Clair

Labelling Mr Curly, one of the cartoonists recurring and enigmatic characters, was something that even Leunig struggled with, although he understands the reason for the curl on the character’s head.

Trust David Leser to bring Donald Trump into the conversation.

Michael Leunig talks about the dark places of creativity. SCU / Natalie Foord

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Much of Leunig’s work is bittersweet, melancholy and sometimes, deals with depression, and Leunig says, is home to some of his best creative outcomes.

Even after being named as an  Australian Living Treasure by the National Trust of Australia in 1999, Leunig still hasn’t come to terms with his success, and the high regard he receives from many Australians – except perhaps the right-wing who he seems to irritate.

Report compiled by Southern Cross University Reporters.

 


Sam Smith

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