Lalo Alcaraz, who also served as a creative consultant on Disney's "Coco" movie, becomes the first virtual artist in residence for Arizona State University’s School of Transborder Studies
Award-winning political cartoonist Lalo Alcaraz has been named the first virtual artist in residence for Arizona State University's School of Transborder Studies00.
The Los Angeles-based political cartoonist has penned cartoons for the past 25 years, including the nationally syndicated comic strip “La Cucaracha,” which found a home in the Los Angeles Times. Alcaraz has gone on to being a producer/filmmaker in addition to his cartoons. He served on creative teams for the TV-based animated series “Bordertown” and the Oscar-winning Disney film “Coco” by Pixar.
“I always write and create about the border,” said Alcaraz, who grew up in San Diego and received his undergraduate degree from San Diego State University. “I'm from the border and it's just always with me. So naturally I was fascinated by the School of Transborder Studies. The work they do is right up my alley.”
He is currently the cultural consultant, consulting producer and writer on the Nickelodeon animated series “The Loud House” and “The Casagrandes.” Alcaraz also is the co-host of the satirical radio talk show, the Pocho Hour of Power on KPFK 90.7 FM in Los Angeles. His work as a freelance editorial cartoonist earned him a spot as a finalist for the 2020 Pulitzer Prize in editorial cartooning.
“We are very excited to welcome Lalo to ASU, The College and our school,” said Irasema Coronado, director and professor of the School of Transborder Studies. “His background and years of advocacy for the Latino and immigrant communities are an indication of his transboundary connections. We welcome his contributions to our interdisciplinary work.”
His first lecture as ASU’s artist in residence will be April 20. “Cartoons that Cross the Line” will feature some of his cartoons about the border, Mexican-American life and immigration.