In a surprising turn of events, veteran jigsaw artist Mike Jupp, 77, has expressed frustration with Gibsons Games after they requested him to remove the St George’s flag from one of his puzzles.
The renowned artist, who has worked with the company for over two decades, claims that this move was part of the company’s broader diversity and inclusion efforts.
The Puzzle Controversy
The puzzle in question, titled “I Love Spring,” is a 1,000-piece creation depicting a lively village scene.
It features a parade on the road, a bustling village fair, and a variety of quirky characters, from a woman relaxing in a bath to a man fixing a roof.
The puzzle also showcases animals, ranging from cows to birds.
However, it’s the inclusion of the St George’s flag that has sparked a heated dispute.
Mike alleges that, as part of a broader effort to make the puzzle “less offensive,” Gibsons Games requested changes to several elements.
These included removing a busty woman in a bathtub, a bull in a suggestive pose with a cow in lingerie, and a group of Morris dancers that some assumed were linked to Northern Ireland’s Orange Order.
The Artist’s Reaction
Mike Jupp, who has enjoyed a long and successful relationship with Gibsons, claimed he had no issues with the company for over 25 years.
However, after the company’s founder retired and his daughter took over, things began to change.
According to Mike, the new leadership made a series of requests that he simply could not agree with.
He ultimately withdrew his licenses from Gibsons Games, calling the changes ridiculous.
In an interview with MailOnline, Mike stated, “They made a series of ridiculous demands that not even I could live with, so I told them to shove it.”
He further explained that the company’s demand to modify his puzzles in this way extended beyond just the current piece and would affect his entire back catalogue.
“Telling a cartoonist how to depict humor is as disrespectful as it is infuriating,” he added.
A New Chapter for Mike Jupp
After ending his collaboration with Gibsons, Mike Jupp has found a new partnership with All Jigsaw Puzzles (AJP), a smaller company based in Devon.
He expressed his excitement about working with a company that understands his artistic vision.
“I love what I do, and it makes people who like my nonsense laugh,” Mike shared with enthusiasm.
Gibsons Responds
Kate Gibson, the managing director of Gibsons Games, acknowledged the situation, saying, “We always endeavor to act in line with our values.”
She added that the company wished Mike all the best in his future endeavors.
Despite the controversy, Gibsons Games has yet to issue a formal comment on the matter, leaving the debate around their stance on diversity and inclusion in jigsaw puzzles to continue.
Looking Ahead
Mike Jupp’s story highlights the ongoing tension between artistic freedom and the push for more inclusive content across various industries.
As for Mike, he’s moving forward with a fresh perspective and a new partnership, continuing to make puzzles that bring joy to his fans.