Zap Comix (1968-2014): A Definitive Guide to the Iconic Underground Comix Series

Zap Comix stands as a cornerstone in the history of underground comix, boldly pushing boundaries and challenging societal norms since its debut in the late 1960s. Created by a collective of visionary artists, Zap Comix revolutionized the comic book industry with its unapologetically irreverent content and groundbreaking approach to storytelling.

In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the fascinating world of Zap Comix, exploring its publication history, iconic characters, critical reception, and enduring legacy. From its humble beginnings on the streets of Haight-Ashbury to its lasting impact on alternative culture, Zap Comix continues to captivate audiences with its unique blend of satire, subversion, and artistic innovation. Join us on a journey through the pages of this iconic comic series as we unravel its secrets and celebrate its enduring influence on the world of comics.

1. Publication History of Zap Comix

Zap Comix emerged onto the scene in early 1968, marking the dawn of a new era in underground comix. The inaugural issue, Zap #1, was published in San Francisco, with approximately 3,500 copies printed by Beat writer Charles Plymell. Under the imprint of Don Donahue’s Apex Novelties, Zap #1 introduced readers to a revolutionary blend of countercultural humor and artistic expression.

Interestingly, Zap #1 was not originally intended as the debut issue. Publisher Brian Zahn had initially planned to release an earlier comic version, but circumstances led to its abandonment. Undeterred, Robert Crumb, the driving force behind Zap, created a new assortment of strips to replace the missing issue.

The tagline “Zap Comics are Squinky Comics!!” adorned the cover of Zap #1, capturing the irreverent spirit of the series. The term “Squinky” was coined by Art Spiegelman and embraced by Crumb, adding to the comic’s offbeat charm.

With the publication of Zap #4 in August 1969, the series transitioned to a new publisher, the Print Mint. This move coincided with a legal challenge related to the content of Zap #4, which led to significant repercussions for Underground Comix. A landmark U.S. Supreme Court ruling in 1973 empowered local communities to set their standards regarding obscenity, signaling a shift in the landscape of comic book distribution.

Despite legal challenges and market fluctuations, Zap Comix persevered, albeit with sporadic publication schedules. From issue #10 onward, Last Gasp took over publishing duties, ensuring the comic’s continued presence in the underground scene. Long gaps between issues became the norm, with only a handful of releases in the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s.

In November 2014, Fantagraphics published a limited edition six-volume hardcover box set containing the complete Zap Comix collection. This comprehensive anthology, accompanied by oral histories and previously unseen material, gave fans a definitive glimpse into the world of Zap.

Zap Comix #16, the final issue in the series, was included in the box set as a never-before-published bonus. Later, in February 2016, Fantagraphics released Zap #16 as a standalone comic, complete with additional content and revisions.
Zap Comix has remained a beacon of creativity and defiance throughout history, leaving an indelible mark on the comic book landscape. From its humble beginnings to its enduring legacy, Zap Comix continues to inspire and provoke, challenging conventions and pushing artistic boundaries with every page.

2. Circulation and Distribution

Zap Comix revolutionized the underground comix scene with unconventional content and bold artistic expression. Despite its outsider status in the comic distribution industry, Zap found its audience through alternative venues such as head shops and countercultural gatherings.

The first issue of Zap was famously sold on the streets of Haight-Ashbury, with Robert Crumb’s wife Dana pushing a baby stroller filled with copies. This grassroots approach to distribution set the tone for Zap’s unconventional journey into the hands of eager readers.

Due to the unique nature of its distribution channels, Zap’s exact circulation figures remain elusive. However, it is estimated that the first 16 issues sold millions of copies, attesting to the comic’s widespread appeal within the counterculture movement of the 1960s and 1970s.

In addition to traditional sales outlets, Zap Comix also found its way into the hands of enthusiasts through mail-order catalogs and underground networks. This decentralized distribution model allowed Zap to reach readers nationwide, fostering a loyal fan base that awaited each new issue.

A notable aspect of Zap’s publication history is the inclusion of collaborative jams in many of its issues. These group efforts, where various artists contributed panels to a shared storyline, added to the comic’s appeal and further cemented its status as a countercultural icon.

Despite legal challenges and fluctuations in the underground Comix market, Zap Comix persisted, with each new issue continuing to captivate readers with its boundary-pushing content and irreverent humor.

Today, Zap Comix stands as a testament to the power of independent creativity and the enduring legacy of Underground Comix. Its influence reverberates through alternative comics, inspiring generations of artists to push the boundaries of artistic expression and challenge societal norms.

3. Featured Characters

• Angelfood McSpade (R. Crumb) — A portrayal of a large-built black woman using racist African native caricatures. They were often depicted as being sexually exploited or manipulated by men. Angelfood McSpade (R. Crumb) was Featured in issues #2 and #0.

• Captain Pissgums and his Pervert Pirates (S. Clay Wilson) — A crew of bisexual male drug-addict pirates known for engaging in kinky and outré sexual acts. Captain Pissgums’ nemesis is Captain Fatima and the butch all-female crew of the SS Quivering Thigh. Captain Pissgums and his Pervert Pirates (S. Clay Wilson) were Featured in issues #3, 10, and 15.

• The Checkered Demon (S. Clay Wilson) — A portly, shirtless demon frequently summoned to dispatch various demented bikers, pirates, and rapists in Wilson’s universe. The Checkered Demon (S. Clay Wilson) was Featured in issues #2, 4, 5, and 8–15.

• Coochy Cooty (Robert Williams) — A sinful, substance-abusing antihero known for fornication and wearing a flower pot hat. Coochy Cooty (Robert Williams) was Featured in issues #5, 6, and 8–13.

• R. Crumb (R. Crumb) — Self-caricatured as “a raving lunatic” and “one of the world’s last great medieval thinkers.” R. Crumb (R. Crumb) Featured in issues #0, 1, 6–8, 10, 11, and 13–15.

• Dirty Dog (R. Crumb) — An anthropomorphic animal comic featuring a horny long-eared hound dog and an all-seeing god portrayed as a rabbit in a straw boater and striped vest with a movie camera. Dirty Dog (R. Crumb) was featured in issue #3.

• Mr. Goodbar (R. Crumb) — A clueless hick in suspenders who appears to be the opposite of Mr. Natural. Mr. Goodbar (R. Crumb) was featured in issue #3.

• Mr. Natural (R. Crumb) — An unreliable holy man and his neurotic disciple Flakey Foont. Mr. Natural (R. Crumb) was featured in issues #0 and #1–7.

• Trashman (Spain) — A hero of the working classes and advocate for radical left-wing causes. Trashman (Spain) was featured in issues #11–13.

• Wonder Wart-Hog, the “Hog of Steel” (Gilbert Shelton) — A violent reactionary amoral “superhero” who hypocritically engages in murder and rape. His alter ego is reporter Philbert DeSanex. Wonder Wart-Hog, the “Hog of Steel” (Gilbert Shelton), was featured in issues #3-5, 13, and 15.

4. Jams in Zap Comix

Zap Comix is renowned for its innovative approach to storytelling, which often includes collaborative efforts known as “jams.” From issue #3 onwards, with few exceptions, each installment of Zap features a group jam by the “Zap collective.” The cartoonists pass a story around in these jams, each contributing panels to create a cohesive narrative. These collaborative efforts showcase the diverse talents of the Zap artists and add an extra layer of creativity to the comic series.

5. Critical Reception of Zap Comix

Zap Comix has garnered praise and criticism throughout history for its boundary-pushing content and unconventional storytelling. While celebrated for its bold artistic vision and satirical commentary on contemporary society, Zap has also been the subject of controversy due to its graphic depictions of sex, violence, and societal taboos.

6. Legacy and Influence

Zap Comix holds a significant place in underground comics and countercultural expression history. As one of the pioneering titles of the underground comix movement of the 1960s and 1970s, Zap played a pivotal role in challenging mainstream norms and pushing the boundaries of artistic freedom. Its influence can be seen in the work of subsequent generations of comic artists, who have drawn inspiration from its irreverent style and provocative themes.

7. Conclusion

In conclusion, Zap Comix remains a landmark achievement in alternative comics, pushing the boundaries of artistic expression and challenging societal norms. With its eclectic roster of characters, innovative storytelling techniques, and fearless exploration of taboo subjects, Zap continues to captivate readers and inspire creators to push the limits of creativity. As a testament to its enduring legacy, Zap Comix remains a cherished and influential work in the pantheon of underground comics.

Read also

• Exploring Underground Comics and Their Role in the Counterculture Movement
• The Evolution of Comics Journalism and Criticism
• The Psychological Themes in Comics: Identity, Trauma, and Morality
• The Role of Independent Publishers in the Comics Industry
• Comic Book Censorship: The Comics Code Authority Era

FAQs about Zap Comix: A Definitive Guide to the Iconic Underground Comix Series

What is Zap Comix?

Zap Comix is a groundbreaking series of underground comics that emerged in the late 1960s. Its irreverent content and innovative storytelling challenged societal norms and pushed artistic boundaries.

Who created Zap Comix?

Zap Comix was created by a collective of visionary artists, with Robert Crumb being one of the driving forces behind its inception.

What is the significance of Zap Comix in comic book history?

Zap Comix holds a significant place in comic book history as a pioneering work of underground comix. It revolutionized the industry with its unapologetic humor and provocative themes.

How many issues of Zap Comix were published?

Seventeen issues of Zap Comix were published from February 1968 to November 2014.

What are some of the iconic characters featured in Zap Comix?

Some iconic characters in Zap Comix include Mr. Natural, R. Crumb, Angelfood McSpade, Wonder Wart-Hog, Checkered Demon, and Trashman.

What is the distribution history of Zap Comix?

Zap Comix was distributed through alternative venues such as head shops and countercultural gatherings. Its exact circulation figures remain elusive, but it is estimated that the first 16 issues sold millions of copies.

What is unique about the storytelling in Zap Comix?

Zap Comix is known for its collaborative jams, where artists pass a story around, contributing panels to create a cohesive narrative. These jams showcase the diverse talents of the artists and add an extra layer of creativity to the series.

How have critics received Zap Comix?

Zap Comix has received both praise and criticism for its boundary-pushing content. While celebrated for its bold artistic vision and satirical commentary, it has also faced controversy due to its graphic depictions of sex, violence, and societal taboos.

What is the legacy of Zap Comix?

Zap Comix continues to inspire generations of artists and readers with its enduring legacy. It remains a cherished and influential work in the history of underground comics, challenging conventions and pushing the limits of creativity.

Where can I learn more about Zap Comix?

You can explore the comprehensive guide provided above, which delves into the publication history, iconic characters, critical reception, and enduring legacy of Zap Comix.