Jon Kudelka, much-loved Australian political cartoonist, dies aged 53

Award-winning Tasmanian artist’s work was published by the Australian, the Saturday Paper and the Hobart Mercury

Jon Kudelka, the Australian political cartoonist, has died at the age of 53.

His wife, Margaret Kudelka, announced the news in a statement on Monday: “We are sad to tell you that our beloved, brilliant Jon Kudelka died peacefully in South Hobart on Sunday afternoon, surrounded by his family and friends.”

“Jon was deeply loved and admired by many, including fellow Tasmanians, the legions of fans of his inimitable art, countless newspaper readers over 30 years, and even by the politicians he relentlessly skewered in his award-winning cartoons (many of whom have his work on their walls).

“He loved his family, friends, making art in many forms, and firmly calling out political and anti-science bullshit with his typically dry wit and compassion.”