"Top 10 MAIN_mondo snarfo kitchen sink 1978 second printing" is a must-have for any collector of underground comix. Published by Kitchen Sink Press in 1978, this second printing features some of the most iconic and influential artists of the underground comix movement. From Robert Crumb to Trina Robbins, this collection is a treasure trove of counterculture comics that pushed the boundaries of censorship and challenged societal norms. In this article, we will take a closer look at the top 10 highlights of this edition and why it holds a special place in the hearts of underground comix enthusiasts. Introduction
The title of this edition in itself is a nod to the counterculture movement of the 1960s and 70s. "Mondo" is a term used to describe something unconventional or bizarre, and "Snarfo" is a fictional character created by underground comix artist Justin Green. This second printing of the original 1972 edition was released in 1978 by Kitchen Sink Press, one of the leading publishers of underground comix at the time. The cover, featuring a psychedelic design by Robert Crumb, sets the tone for the rebellious and non-conformist content inside. Mondo Snarfo Kitchen Sink 1978 Second Printing
Founded in 1969 by Denis Kitchen, Kitchen Sink Press was a pioneer in the publishing of underground comix. The name itself was a play on words, referencing both the kitchen sink and the expression "everything but the kitchen sink," which reflected the diverse range of content they published. Kitchen Sink Press was responsible for bringing underground comix into mainstream bookstores and paving the way for the alternative and independent comics scene we know today. Kitchen Sink Press
The underground comix movement emerged in the 1960s as a response to the strict censorship laws and mainstream comic book industry. These comics were self-published and often distributed through alternative channels such as head shops and record stores. They were characterized by their taboo subject matter, experimental art styles, and countercultural themes. The second printing of Mondo Snarfo is a prime example of the rebellious and subversive nature of underground comix. Underground Comix
No discussion of underground comix is complete without mentioning the legendary Robert Crumb. His contributions to Mondo Snarfo include the cover design and a 4-page story, "Whiteman Meets Bigfoot," which pokes fun at white American culture and its obsession with consumerism. Crumb's iconic artwork, often featuring exaggerated and grotesque caricatures, has become synonymous with the underground comix movement. Robert Crumb
Another prominent underground comix artist featured in this collection is Gilbert Shelton. His most famous creation, The Fabulous Furry Freak Brothers, is a staple of the counterculture scene and is still in print today. In Mondo Snarfo, readers are treated to a 6-page story titled "Freak Brothers Reunion," which follows the adventures of the Freak Brothers as they try to smuggle marijuana across the border. Shelton's humorous and satirical take on the drug culture of the 1970s is a highlight of this edition. Gilbert Shelton
Considered the first female underground comix artist, Trina Robbins was a trailblazer in a male-dominated industry. Her contributions to Mondo Snarfo include a 2-page story, "A Love Story," which explores the struggles of being a feminist in a patriarchal society. Robbins' bold and unapologetic feminist stance was a breath of fresh air in a time when women's voices were often silenced. Trina Robbins
Art Spiegelman, best known for his Pulitzer Prize-winning graphic novel "Maus," also makes an appearance in this edition with a 2-page story, "Ace Hole, Midget Detective." This story, a parody of the hard-boiled detective genre, showcases Spiegelman's talent for blending humor and social commentary. His contribution to Mondo Snarfo is a testament to the diversity of styles and themes found in underground comix. Art Spiegelman
As mentioned earlier, Justin Green is the creator of the character Snarfo, who appears on the cover of this edition. His contributions to Mondo Snarfo include a 6-page story, "The 3rd Most Interesting Man in the World," which follows Snarfo as he embarks on a journey to find the meaning of life. Green's absurd and surreal storytelling style is a perfect fit for the underground comix genre. Justin Green
Bill Griffith, creator of the popular comic strip "Zippy the Pinhead," also has a story in this edition called "Zippy's Last Adventure." This 4-page story is a prime example of Griffith's surreal and satirical humor, with Zippy encountering a giant talking onion and a group of nudists. Griffith's contribution adds another layer of diversity to this already eclectic collection. Bill Griffith