Calvin and Hobbes: Snow Art

When people think of Bill Watterson’s Calvin & Hobbes, many humorous recollections can come to mind. Some recall Calvin’s primary alter egos, Spaceman Spiff and Stupendous Man. Others remember his wacky imaginary inventions, such as the Transmogrifier, or his club, Get Rid Of Slimy girlS. Another creation of Calvin’s, the incomparable game known as “Calvinball,” seems to be remembered by many.

Then of course, who could forget Calvin’s legacy of “Snow Art” that he created in the wintertime during the comic strip’s run? Since Groundhog Day’s Punxsutawney Phil has recently indicated that winter is still far from over, I thought it appropriate to review some of Calvin’s wintry wizardry.

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Here we see Calvin’s father reacting to his son’s “artwork” in the front yard. At this stage of the game he’s merely contemplating the amount of time (and snow) it must have taken to create this masterpiece.
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And here we see Calvin’s parents expressing concern for their son’s mental health (who can blame them?)
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At this point, Calvin’s prodigious output no longer puzzles his father. In fact, he has even become familiar enough with Calvin’s particular form of self-expression that he can interpret specific meaning from it.

With this in mind, there is the question of what motivates Calvin to spend so much time making his snow “art?” Is it a genuine desire for self-expression or an ongoing attempt to disturb his parents?…

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I think the final strip above reveals all in the sense of “form following function.”

I hope you’ve enjoyed this retrospective glimpse into the loopy genius of Bill Watterson and Calvin & Hobbes. Until next time, stay warm!

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