Biography (History)

Mutations is an adult comic strip that re-supposes life and its moments through a number of characters and situations. It comments upon the things that we all experience and connects the dots in a most original and refreshing way. Drawing influence from the dark satire of Life In Hell, the ironic quirkiness of The Far Side, and complex and lovable characters not unlike Calvin and Hobbes or early Disney cartoons, Mutations escapes common classification and truly stands in a league of its own. Once Leaf and Shef have become a part of your life, you will always have a reason to smile as you follow their journey through everyday trials and situations we can all relate to and reflect upon. You will become their friends...or else...(hoof to face sound effect)

John Ricksen created the characters of Leaf, the five legged frog, and Shef, the purple furred goat, in his freshman year of high school. The idea of social outcasts finding each other and building a strong/bold union in this cold, harsh world seemed humorous and entertaining to him. Years of doodling, sketching, and brainstorming finally came to a head in 2004 when he began formatting the early versions of what would become, Mutations the comic strip. The comic has steadily evolved over time, having been drawn in a number of styles and formats, but the storyline and characters have always been consistent. Through Mutations John is able to vent his frustration with the world and life in general, as well as see its humor and depth. The comics are complex and interesting with a subtle humor that often requires more than just a quick glance. Mutations comedy always addresses the cultural climate of the modern world; from sleazy celebrities, to the hell of work, to the spectrum of emotions, bad habits, violence, ill will towards fellow man, competition, scientific breakthroughs, literary references, and philosophical thought. Now that John's process is in a streamlined state of efficiency, matched by his endless source of creativity, Mutations is in full force and is just finishing its first year (365 cartoons) in underground publication. Stay tuned...and stay intact...its just beginning.