Gerry Gersten

Gerry Gersten (October 17, 1927 – January 12, 2017) was a political caricaturist renowned for his pencil on vellum technique. He gained prominence in the 1960s through his work in publications such as *The New York Times*, *Time*, and *Sports Illustrated*. Gersten's caricatures were admired by notable figures like Joe Namath, who requested a copy of his illustration, and George H.W. Bush, who praised Gersten's depiction of him as a "masterpiece."

Born in New York City to Polish Jewish immigrants, Gersten grew up in The Bronx. Despite his parents' wish for him to become an accountant, he pursued art, graduating from Cooper Union in 1950. His career flourished with contributions to major magazines and books, including a notable cover for Arthur D. Morse's *While Six Million Died*, which depicted FDR averting his eyes from the Holocaust.

Gersten began illustrating for *Mad Magazine* in 1986, creating 39 features over 15 years, including impactful pieces that redefined the magazine's art style. One of his last works was a cover illustration for Rafael Medoff's book about Josiah E. DuBois Jr., which was well-received for its likeness and historical significance.

Gersten received awards from The Society of Illustrators and other organizations, with his work exhibited in museums like the Brooklyn Museum and the Museum of American Illustration. He lived in Connecticut, had two children, and grandchildren. Gersten passed away in 2017 after battling Parkinson's disease, with *Mad Magazine* paying tribute to his contributions posthumously.