Karl Wirsum was raised on the South Side of Chicago and even as a child was drawn to rhythm and blues music and the Maxwell Street Market, a nearby open-air flea market. The rhythms and visual kaleidoscope of the scene inspired the young artist, and Wirsum began drawing, his images heavily inspired by the musicians and the improvisation of the jazz scene. He received a B.F.A. from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago in 1961, going on to become a member of the Chicago artist group, The Hairy Who. During his time in college, he studied under Kathleen Blackshear, an eccentric art historian who played a pivotal role in the development of The Hairy Who.
Wirsum’s art usually consists of large symmetrical, or nearly symmetrical figures, with strong outlines and bold colors. Along with symmetry, he is interested in patterns and cartoon caricature. Wirsum, as a person, loved puns, and this manifests visually in his artwork. His work is often described as outrageous and incredibly original.