Behind the Lines 2024: No Guts, No Glory – A Celebration of Courage in Political Cartooning

The annual Behind the Lines exhibition has returned with its 2024 edition, No Guts, No Glory, showcasing the year’s most poignant political cartoons at the Museum of Australian Democracy (MoAD) in Old Parliament House. This year’s collection brings together the works of 40 emerging and established cartoonists, offering a satirical yet empathetic take on key political and social issues.

Megan Herbert, named the 2024 Political Cartoonist of the Year, epitomizes this year’s theme. Known for her emotionally charged, empathetic approach, Herbert reflects on the honor with characteristic humility: “I did demand a recount,” she quips, acknowledging her imposter syndrome. Yet, her gratitude is palpable. “If this award means that some of my ideas are connecting with people, then I’m happy about that, because that’s what I try to do with my work.”

Herbert’s rise in political cartooning is a relatively recent phenomenon, yet her voice is already making waves. She focuses on the human impact of policies rather than merely lampooning politicians. In her cartoon Lost in Translation, a retro super-computer hilariously converts scientific data into diluted political messaging, exemplifying her ability to inject humor into serious topics like climate change.

This year’s exhibition reflects a broad range of issues, from housing affordability and climate change to geopolitical tensions and cost-of-living pressures. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong, and Opposition Leader Peter Dutton frequently appear in these works, capturing Australia’s political landscape with wit and insight.

Curator Matt Jones emphasizes the sporting metaphor underlying this year’s exhibition: “If you really put yourself out there and try very hard, then perhaps you can win.” This metaphor extends to both politics and life, highlighting the competitive nature of both arenas.

The exhibition also delves into international political moments, with cartoons like Nordacious’ Childless Cat Lady referencing Taylor Swift’s endorsement of Kamala Harris and the ensuing public backlash. Meanwhile, Mark Knight’s Russian Democracy Sausages comments on Vladimir Putin’s extended rule, blending humor with sharp political critique.

Beyond satire, these cartoons serve as a crucial component of Australia’s free press. Jones highlights their importance: “They’re a very important part of the free press that we have in Australia.” This sentiment is echoed by Herbert, who acknowledges the vulnerability inherent in political cartooning. “You don’t have lukewarm cartoons. They don’t stand the middle ground; they say something. So, you have to be brave to do it.”

Behind the Lines 2024: No Guts, No Glory is more than an exhibition—it’s a testament to the power of courage, humor, and empathy in shaping public discourse. Through their fearless portrayals, cartoonists offer a unique lens on the year’s most pressing issues, challenging us to see beyond the headlines and connect with the human stories beneath.

The exhibition is open at MoAD, Old Parliament House, inviting visitors to reflect, laugh, and engage with the political landscape of 2024 through the eyes of some of Australia’s most daring cartoonists.