The Nevada Humanities has announced the publication of Slices of the Silver State, a collection of the best editorial cartoons by the award-winning Nevada artist, Jeff Hickman. Hickman has been publishing his political commentaries in the Reno Gazette-Journal since 2002.

“Because his body of work spans one of the more dynamic periods of development in Nevada, this collection offers an opportunity to consider the changes that have unfolded during the first years of the twenty-first century,” said author and historian Ron James, who contributed commentary for the book. The publication features an introduction by acclaimed artist and University of Nevada, Reno professor emeritus of art, James McCormick, who placed Hickman’s portfolio in the context of past Nevada newspapers artists.

The editorial cartoons in Slices of the Silver State address a wide range of topics and subjects, from the presidential election to critical issues facing the state including water use and education. The importance of U.S. Senator Harry Reid’s career and transitions between governors, mayors and University of Nevada, Reno presidents provided additional inspiration for Hickman.

“Proceeds from the sale of this book will assist the Nevada Humanities as it continues to bring dynamic, thoughtful programming to our state,” said Joe Crowley, former president of the University of Nevada, Reno and member of the board of trustees of Nevada Humanities. The book is available for $14.95 at bookstores and from Nevada Humanities.

Book signings will be held in Reno at Sundance Bookstore on Saturday, Nov. 1, 2008, from 11a.m.-12 noon, and in Carson City at Borders on Saturday, Nov. 22, from 3-5 p.m.

The volume was designed by Robert Blesse, director of the Black Rock Press at the University of Nevada, Reno. Publication costs were funded in part by the Annette and Harvey Whittemore Family Foundation. Whittemore, who is a real estate developer and lobbyist, is featured in a few of the cartoons.

Jeff Hickman, artist and graphic designer for more than 30 years, is a graduate of the University of Nevada, Reno. He has produced a weekly editorial cartoon for the Reno Gazette-Journal for the past six years and was awarded “Best Editorial Cartoon” by the Nevada Press Association in 2007.

For more information or to purchase Slices of the Silver State from Nevada Humanities, call (775) 784-6587 or 1-800-382-5023. For information about book signings, call Sundance Bookstore at (775) 786-1188, and Borders at (775) 267-0755.