Editorial Cartoonists of the Atlanta Journal and Atlanta Journal-Constitution (AJC) :: Lou Erickson (“Eric”) – Atlanta Journal Editorial Cartoonist, 1950–1982

Let Us Spray (With Overlay) – Original Art by Lou Erickson

Artist: Lou Erickson (Penciller)

3 Comments - 33 Views - 0 Like

Let Us Spray (With Overlay) – Original Art by Lou Erickson Comic Art

Additional Images:

LET US SPRAY (OVERLAY)

The Atlanta Journal (Atlanta, Georgia) · Thu, Sep 16, 1976 · Page 24

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GULF OF AMERICA (WITH OVERLAY)

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Innocent Bystander (with Overlay) – Original Art by Lou Erickson ("Eric")

Artwork Details

Title:	Let Us Spray (With Overlay) – Original Art by Lou Erickson
Artist:	Lou Erickson (Penciller)
Media Type:	Pen and Ink
Art Type:	Sketch Card
For Sale Status:	NFS
Views:	33
Likes on CAF:	0 1
Comments:	3
Added to Site:	7/29/2025
Comic Art Archive:

Description

Title: Let Us Spray (With Overlay) – Original Art by Lou Erickson
Artist: Lou Erickson (Penciller)
Medium: Pen and Ink
Type: Published Editorial Illustration
Publication: The Atlanta Journal, September 16, 1976, Page 24
Original Use: Editorial cartoon highlighting environmental concerns over fluorocarbon use
Overlay: Red-tone production overlay included with original art
Dimensions: Approx. print width marked for velox reproduction
Status: Original Art with Published Clipping and Overlay

Description:
This Lou Erickson editorial cartoon, published on September 16, 1976, delivers a visually satirical jab at the environmental crisis of the day—ozone depletion caused by fluorocarbons. As public awareness grew following scientific warnings from Rowland and Molina in 1974, Erickson captured the gravity and absurdity of aerosol culture with a literal play on words: “Let Us Spray!” Two spray cans launch chlorofluorocarbon clouds into the atmosphere, forming a disapproving face in the ozone—an ominous personification of environmental backlash.

Published just as the National Academy of Sciences confirmed fluorocarbon-related ozone loss, this cartoon documents a pivotal moment when science, regulation, and public policy collided. Its inclusion of a vivid red-tone overlay used in printing makes this a standout example of Erickson’s published production art.

Provenance: From the Lou Erickson estate, including original editorial overlays and press clipping.

Collector's Insight: Rare surviving example of environmental cartooning with original overlay intact. Reflects Erickson’s sharp wit during a transitional moment in environmental policy, just before the EPA began phasing out household CFC products.

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	Alan E Premium Gallery Owner
Joined:	May 2025
Last Login:	September 2025
Country:	UNITED STATES
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Marcus Wai
Member Since 2005

Posted on 7/29/2025

Fluorocarbons are going to make a bigly comeback as climate change science won't be a thing anymore.

Alan E
Member Since 2025

1 - Posted on 7/29/2025

Marcus Wai wrote:

Fluorocarbons are going to make a bigly comeback as climate change science won't be a thing anymore.

but our hair will look good... You must have been on vacation this past week.

Marcus Wai
Member Since 2005

1 - Posted on 7/29/2025

Alan E wrote:

but our hair will look good... You must have been on vacation this past week.

Just a little trip to San Diego.

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