Crippen - Probably the best Disabled cartoonist in the world!

Hi, and welcome to Crippen's disability cartooning pages.

Crippen is otherwise known as Dave Lupton, who goes under other alter-egos such as Sox from time to time.

Somewhat slowed down by having to use a wheelchair for a while, Dave found himself surrounded by ideas for cartooning based upon Disability and Disability issues. It wasn't long before the alter ego "Crippen" emerged and the rest, as they say, is history.

Within a few years Crippen had become the leading Disabled cartoonist in the UK, working for the most part on the political edge of Disability issues and rights, identifying the barriers that exist for Disabled people within our society whilst focusing on the humour (sometimes!) and the absurdity of many situations. Over the years Crippen has discovered that the cartoons can open many of the doors that are often closed to the more conventional ways of addressing disability issues - he does have a bit of a reputation for confronting and challenging in areas where others fear (though would dearly like) to tread!

His work within this field is legend; it has included commissions from the BBC and Channel 4, many Disability focused film and television companies, magazines and newspapers, and several leading mainstream newspaper publications, including the Guardian and the Yorkshire Evening Post. His work has been translated into other languages and has even found a home across the pond (and who said the Americans don't have a sense of humour?!). "Crippen" cartoons can also be seen adorning the walls of the offices of many leading political figures, including William Hague, David Blunkett and Tony Blair.

Dave (as himself) was the Chair of the National Union of Journalists Disabled Members Council for several years and has worked with many groups and organisations of Disabled people in both an advisory and artistic capacity.

Crippen has been published in many magazines and newsletters of groups and organisations of Disabled people within the UK. Also Disability Now, Disability Arts in London magazine, BBC - OUCH!, Yorkshire Evening post, Oldie magazine, the Guardian, and Direct Action Network (DAN) e-magazine. He has also produced work on commission for the Disability Rights Commission, the Labour Party, The Disability Trades Union Alliance, and the House of Lords.

Crippen cartoons are also used by disabled trainers for disability and equality training.

Crippen is currently writing a blog journal on Disability Arts Online, funded by the Arts Council of England.