Gary Baseman's colorful illustrations, known for gracing the box of the board game Cranium and the cover of The New Yorker, represent just a fraction of his artistic range. His creative endeavors extend into installation art, performance, and toy design, showcasing a multifaceted talent. Growing up near Hollywood, Baseman was deeply influenced by the Los Angeles art scene and iconic figures like Walt Disney and Andy Warhol. One of his most beloved characters is Blackie the Cat, a fanged black cat featured in his sketches and sculptures, and available as a plush toy. Baseman’s eccentric, oval-eyed characters often inhabit fantastical settings, creating a dreamlike atmosphere that captivates viewers. He describes his work as "Pervasive Art," reflecting his use of diverse media to engage a wide audience. During a stint in New York City, Baseman created illustrations for prominent publications and companies, including Time, Rolling Stone, and Nike. His artistic repertoire further expanded into television with the animated show Teacher’s Pet, which garnered him several Emmy Awards. Baseman's unique ability to blend various artistic forms has made his work both recognizable and influential across multiple platforms.