James Whitworth
James Whitworth is a cartoonist. He is the news cartoonist for the Jewish Chronicle and the Sheffield Star, as well as The Author. He has contributed cartoons to a wide range of publications including Private Eye (for whom he has also written gags), Prospect and The Independent.
Born in Sheffield, United Kingdom in 1970, Whitworth was educated at Tapton School and Sheffield Hallam University, where he graduated with a degree in English language and literature. During his time at university he won the Percy Snow Memorial Prize for Best Short Story, and contributed cartoons to the University's magazine. He also holds a post graduate degree in English.
During 2007-2008, Whitworth won an award from the Writers' & Artists' Yearbook for his blog. In 2007, Whitworth compiled a book of his father's (Ralph Whitworth's) cartoons to much acclaim.
Whitworth cartoons appear three times a week in the Sheffield Star. He is a regular guest on BBC radio and often goes into schools to teach cartooning. His work has been published in many countries, including the United States.
Whitworth's work is regularly seen in galleries and he has had two solo exhibitions. In 2013 Whitworth collaborated with Canadian artist Wildago on an exhibition to celebrate the centenary of stainless steel. Whitworth's 2014 exhibition is in conjunction with Record Store Day.
He states his cartooning influences as Mel Calman, Johnny Hart, Charles Schulz, Reg Smythe, Osbert Lancaster, Larry, Noel Ford and his father.
Whitworth is also the author of a series of crime novels set in the North Yorkshire town of Whitby. The first three novels are Death's Disciple, The Eve of Murder and "Bidding to Die".