Joshua Barkman’s False Knees: Nature, Humor, and Heart

The world of graphic novels and webcomics is full of creativity and imagination, but few artists manage to truly stand out. Joshua Barkman, a talented Montréal-based creator, has done just that with False Knees. His work is refreshingly original, using traditional tools such as pencils, gouache, and India ink to create quiet yet thought-provoking moments that draw readers in. Barkman’s art encourages reflection, laughter, and an appreciation for the beauty in everyday life.

Each False Knees comic feels personal, inspired by Barkman’s long walks through nature and his deep curiosity about the world. From the Eisner-nominated creator of the popular False Knees webcomic comes another beautifully illustrated collection that captures themes of loneliness, wonder, and the delicate humor of existence. His ability to blend thoughtful observation with playful wit makes his work stand out in today’s crowded comic scene.

As an attentive observer and admirer of nature, Joshua Barkman captures the perfect blend of humor and emotion through his beautifully recognizable art style. His work encourages us to pause, look, and listen to the world around us, to notice the quiet lessons that nature offers, and to understand our place within it. Through his thoughtful portrayals of animals and their surroundings, Barkman reveals that humans and animals share more in common than we often realize. On this fragile planet, we are all connected, part of the same living story that continues to unfold every day. The mundane and often underappreciated beauty of the natural world is no small feat; it represents just a small fragment of the vast and intricate fabric of the universe. Within that fraction lies a wonder so profound that it reminds us how extraordinary the ordinary truly is

In this new volume, Ew, It’s Beautiful: A False Knees Comic Collection by Andrews McMeel Publishing, Barkman brings to life the voices of birds and other creatures such as raccoons, cats, and insects, exploring their imagined thoughts as they experience the rhythm of the seasons. His work combines humor and introspection in perfect balance, reminding readers that even in the ordinary moments of life, there is extraordinary meaning waiting to be discovered.

The panels often read like poetry, in which animals become mirrors of human emotions and experiences. Joshua’s decision to humanize his characters feels both surprising and natural, creating a bridge between our world and the one we often overlook just outside our windows. The humor throughout the collection is clever, gentle, and occasionally catches you off guard, offering moments of laughter that linger long after reading.

I love how Joshua captures the rhythm of the seasons in his panels, showing how nature and its creatures move gracefully through cycles of change. Each scene reflects the gentle transitions of spring’s renewal, summer’s energy, autumn’s calm beauty, and winter’s quiet stillness. His animals do more than simply exist in these changing landscapes; they adapt and thrive within them. Just as people are shaped by time and environment, Barkman’s creatures remind us that all living things share a connection to the turning of the seasons. His art beautifully celebrates this harmony between life and nature.

Nature lovers will find False Knees especially appealing. The art celebrates the wisdom found in the natural world, revealing lessons in patience, empathy, and curiosity. Barkman captures the quiet rhythm of life, showing how animals and humans are interconnected in subtle and meaningful ways. His stories breathe with life and sincerity, a true reflection of nature’s poetry in motion.

Visually, the artwork is diverse and engaging. Some panels are simple, sketch-like drawings, while others are intricate and richly detailed. The mix of black-and-white and full-color illustrations adds depth and contrast, reflecting the emotional range of the series. Each page feels alive, a blend of humor, insight, and artistic craft that makes False Knees a standout experience for readers of all ages.

I highly recommend visiting Joshua Barkman’s website to explore his art and support his work. His site offers a range of merchandise that brings his charming and thoughtful illustrations into everyday life. His sticker sets are especially delightful, full of personality, humor, and the quiet wisdom of nature. Owning these pieces is more than enjoying his art, it’s a way to celebrate creativity and bring a touch of his world into your own.