Imaginary Interview with Cau Gomez – The Art of Visual Satire

nterviewer: Hello, Cau Gomez! Thank you for joining us today. Your work is widely recognized for its powerful visual commentary. What inspired you to become a graphic artist, especially in the field of caricature and satire?

Cau Gomez: Hello! It’s a pleasure to be here. Since childhood, I’ve been fascinated by the power of images to tell stories. I grew up in Salvador, Bahia, a city full of artistic and cultural influences. My first inspiration came from newspapers and magazines—I was amazed at how a single drawing could say more than an entire article. Caricature, for me, became a natural way to mix humor and social criticism.

Interviewer: Your work often addresses political and social issues. How do you balance humor with serious topics?

Cau Gomez: That’s a challenge! Satire is a double-edged sword—it must be sharp enough to critique but not so harsh that it loses its impact. I believe that humor is one of the most effective ways to open people’s eyes to injustice. A well-crafted caricature can make someone laugh and then think deeply about the issue behind it. I always try to maintain that balance by using exaggeration and symbolism while respecting the audience’s intelligence.

Interviewer: You have won many international awards. What do these recognitions mean to you as an artist?

Cau Gomez: Awards are always gratifying, but for me, the greatest achievement is knowing that my work reaches people and makes an impact. Winning competitions in places like Europe, Asia, and Latin America has allowed me to connect with artists from different cultures. It also shows that art is a universal language—a powerful tool to communicate beyond borders.

Interviewer: How do you see the role of caricature in today’s world, especially with the rise of digital media?

Cau Gomez: The digital era has transformed everything! On one hand, it allows artists to reach global audiences instantly. On the other, it comes with new challenges, such as censorship, misinformation, and the fast-paced nature of social media. Caricature remains important because it offers an alternative perspective, often countering mainstream narratives. But today, an artist must be even more aware of how their work spreads and is interpreted.

Interviewer: Who are your biggest influences, and what advice would you give to aspiring illustrators?

Cau Gomez: I have always admired artists like Millôr Fernandes, Ziraldo, and Jean-Jacques Sempé. Their ability to combine simplicity with deep meaning is something I strive for. To young illustrators, I’d say: observe the world carefully, develop your unique voice, and be fearless in expressing yourself. Never underestimate the power of drawing to provoke thought and inspire change.

Interviewer: Finally, what can we expect next from Cau Gomez?

Cau Gomez: I’m working on a new book, which will be a collection of satirical illustrations covering themes of politics, culture, and daily life. I also have upcoming exhibitions in Brazil and Europe, where I’ll showcase some of my latest works. There’s always something new on the horizon!

Interviewer: That sounds exciting! Thank you so much for sharing your insights with us. We look forward to seeing more of your incredible work.

Cau Gomez: Thank you! I appreciate the conversation and the opportunity to share my journey. Keep questioning the world—and keep drawing!