German Election Cover for Süddeutsche Zeitung

Editorial, Drawings, Posters

I had the opportunity to illustrate today’s cover for the Süddeutsche Zeitung on tomorrow’s upcoming German federal election. I wanted to capture the lively, chaotic, and dynamic nature of this particular election season – where citizens engage, explore, and utimately decide.

A Marketplace of Political Parties – Cover Art for Germany’s largest quality daily newspaper.

The scene depicts a bustling marketplace filled with numerous political party stands, each promoting their message, while countless people wander through, searching for information, debating, and forming their opinions.

“Vor der Wahl: Am Sonntag entscheiden die Bürgerinnen und Bürger über den neuen Bundestag.”

THE THREAT OF DISINFORMATION

The marketplace, of course, serves as a metaphor for democracy – now more than ever under threat of destruction: a space of exchange, persuasion, and decision-making.

In an era of fake influence from Russia – and, more recently, from the U.S. government as well – this illustration highlights the timeless act of face-to-face political engagement, a reminder that democracy is, at its core, a conversation among people.

The bustling marketplace symbolizes democracy – an arena of persuasion and choice.


POSTER ON POLTICIAL PARTIES

Die Parteienlandschaft: Plakat
für den Geschichtsunterricht

As a reminder, much like the marketplace in my Süddeutsche Zeitung cover, my large-scale Political Party Landscapes poster “Die Parteienlandschaft – 1848 bis heute” serves as a map of democracy, providing a structured yet detailed overview of Germany’s political party system – its history, evolution, and ideological currents.

In an era of increasing disinformation and foreign influence, understanding the foundations of democracy has never been more crucial.

Originally created for DIE ZEIT newspaper, this poster is ideal for classrooms, political discussions, and anyone looking to gain a clear, big-picture view of Germany’s political landscape. >MORE

Satire on Train Travelers Released

Uncategorized
Oliver Weiss In vollen Zügen Riva Verlag Münchner Verlagsgruppe Satire Cartoons

Released today, my book In vollen Zügen – Menschen, denen man ohne Aufpreis auf jeder Bahnreise begegnet. Eine Typologie (Full Steam Ahead: A Typology of Train Travelers) takes readers on a humorous ride through the quirks, frustrations, and absurdities of rail travel (RIVA/MÜNCHNER VERLAGS-GRUPPE).

The release was accompanied by an interview on MDR radio, where the book was discussed.

→ Buy on Amazon | → Buy at Thalia


SATIRE & CARTOONS

From grumpy complainers to overenthusiastic small talkers, this satire dissects the many personalities one inevitably encounters on every trip. With sharp wit and playful illustrations, it paints a vivid picture of life on the rails – where personal space is a luxury, delays are inevitable, and social norms are often left at the station.

The added cartoons help bring the wonderous world of travel to life. >MORE

The First-Class Travelers

AT THE MERCY OF FATE

Veteran train travelers are all too familiar with the trials of the rails: packed carriages where broken air conditioning turns car 7 into a sauna, relentless delays eroding patience like rust on the tracks, missed connections that make rerouting a lost cause, out-of-order toilets spreading their unmistakable scent through the corridors, and empty onboard bistros leaving hungry passengers stranded.

These are just a few of the frustrations that test even the most seasoned traveler’s endurance.

A must-read for commuters, travel lovers, and anyone who’s ever questioned their seatmate’s life choices.

My Children’s Book “Two Red Fireflies” Out Now

Books, Children, Collage

A charming bedtime story for children aged 3 and up, my picture book Zwei rote Glüh­­würm­chen (Two Red Fireflies) follows Maxine, a glowing red firefly, on her journey through a nightly garden where she discovers the beauty of friendship (VERMES/DON BOSCO).

→ Buy on Amazon | → Buy at Thalia

A TACTILE EXPERIENCE

This beautifully illustrated book blends hand-drawn art and collage to create a rich, atmospheric world. It’s a heartwarming tale of two fireflies discovering friendship while embracing the magic of the night. The story gently explores light and shadow, helping children find comfort in darkness.

Two Red Fireflies offers a delightful tactile experience – printed on thick, high-quality paper that feels luxurious in hand. The deep, rich black tones are beautifully saturated, enhancing the nighttime themes and bringing the illustrations to life. A perfect bedtime read that soothes and inspires sweet dreams. >MORE

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

  • Enchanting Illustrations: A visually striking mix of hand-drawn artwork and collage, bringing a rich, atmospheric world to life.
  • A Story of Friendship: A heartfelt tale of two fireflies, making it a perfect bedtime read.
  • The Beauty of the Night: Explores the wonders of darkness, light, and shadow, helping children embrace nighttime without fear.
  • Calming & Dreamy: A gentle, comforting story that sparks imagination and inspires peaceful sleep.

Reimagining a Classic: Revised Cover Art for Philosophy Bestseller

News, Uncategorized

The million-copy bestseller – now with my updated cover illustration: Richard David Precht’s Wer bin ich – und wenn ja, wie viele? (Who Am I – And If So, How Many?) blends philosophy with insights from science, psychology, and neuroscience. It explores life’s big questions: What is truth? How do I know who I am? What are the limits of brain research?

LONG-TIME-BESTSELLER

The book quickly became one of Germany’s bestsellers after its first publication in 2007, with foreign rights sold in over 30 countries. It is being published by GOLDMANN/PENGUIN RANDOM HOUSE.

For this updated edition, the cover underwent a redesign. My original artwork – a ship emitting a cloud of steam in the shape of a question mark – visually reflects the book’s core themes: the search for identity, knowledge, and truth.

→ Buy on Amazon | → Buy at Thalia

Cover Illustration for Yuval Harari Bestseller, Updated Edition

Books, Children, Collage
Updated Penguin Paperback Edition

How did homo sapiens conquer earth? When did money, states and religion appear, and why? How did science and capitalism become the dominant creeds of the modern era? What are the chances that homo sapiens will still be around in a hundred years?

These are just some of the topics tackled in this international bestseller by Yuval Noah Harari whose Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind is one of the most influential and bestselling books of our time.


A WORLD OF HUMANITY

My cover illustration for the German edition, Sapiens: Eine kurze Geschichte der Menschheit (PENGUIN), a long-time SPIEGEL bestseller, reflects the profound journey through human history, blending ancient symbolism with modern design elements.

It shows a globe crowed with hundreds of people, with objects of humanity spread across. The aim was to capture Harari’s insightful exploration of humanity’s evolution, from the emergence of Homo sapiens to the complexities of the present day.

This updated edition brings new perspectives and expanded content. >MORE

→ Buy on Amazon | → Buy at Thalia

Oktoberfest Wimmelbild Cover for Süddeutsche Zeitung

Editorial, Drawings, Posters

I had the pleasure of illustrating the cover for Süddeutsche Zeitung on the Oktoberfest – capturing the energy, excitement, and traditions of the world’s most famous beer festival.

The scene is a lively wimmelbild, packed with details that bring the Munich Wiesn to life: crowded beer tents, waitresses skillfully carrying Maßkrüge, brass bands playing, people in traditional Bavarian attire, and the joyful chaos of amusement rides and festivities.

My Lively Wimmelbild Capturing the Essence of Munich’s Wiesn

Oktoberfest is more than just beer and celebration – it’s a cultural phenomenon that brings millions together. My goal was to reflect this unique blend of tradition, camaraderie, and the sheer vibrancy of the event in a single illustration.

Cartoon, Wimmelbild, Menschenmenge, Volksfest, Tracht, Bierzelte, Blasmusik, Maßkrug, Brezn, Fahrgeschäfte, Festzeltstimmung, Gemütlichkeit, Wiesn-Trubel, Tradition, bayerische Kultur, Bayern, Bavaria, Munich, München, hidden object picture, crowd, folk festival, traditional attire, beer tents, brass music, beer mug, pretzel, amusement rides, festival atmosphere, coziness, Oktoberfest buzz, tradition, Bavarian culture
“Bierhimmel oder Wiesn-Hölle” – Beer Heaven or Oktoberfest Hell


OKTOBERFEST POSTER

Bierkrug Bier beer stein steins Bierkrüge Krug Krüge Wiesnkrug Wiesn-Maßkrug Masskrug Oktoberfestkrug Oktoberfest pop art design poster heart Ferris wheel memorabilia Beer Festival Munich Germany
My Oktober­fest Beer Steins from 2008

This project holds special significance for me. In 2008, I had the honor of winning first prize in Munich’s official Oktoberfest poster design competition.

My design featured four key symbols that embody the spirit of the festival: a beer mug, a Ferris wheel, a smiling heart, and a pretzel. Each element represents a different aspect of the Oktoberfest experience – the joy of sharing a drink, the excitement of the fairground, the warmth of Bavarian hospitality, and the beloved traditional food.

The artwork was printed on official Oktoberfest memorabilia, including beer mugs, posters, and collector’s items, spreading its festive spirit far and wide. >MORE

Illustrations for Bestseller on Politics, Society, and Economy

Books, Children, Collage

I created the illustrations for Das Buch, das (fast) alles erklärt: Politik, Wirtschaft und Weltgeschehen endlich verstehen (The Book That Explains It All), a book that quickly became a long-running SPIEGEL bestseller (PIPER).

Written by Tim Schreder and Jennifer Sieglar, it provides an insightful and humorous exploration of topics ranging from politics to society to everyday life, helping readers navigate the complexities of the modern world.


BREAKING DOWN BIG IDEAS

Through a combination of informative and whimsical illustrations, I aimed to enhance the book’s witty and thought-provoking approach to these important subjects. The illustrations serve as both a playful and insightful guide to general knowledge, making even complex topics accessible and engaging for readers of all ages.

Both authors host the popular TV news show “logo!” on ZDF television.

→ Buy on Amazon | → Buy at Thalia


An mRNA vaccine teaches cells how to produce a protein that triggers an immune response,
helping to protect against specific diseases.


The Black Lives Matter movement gained global attention through the deaths of George Floyd
and Breonna Taylor, highlighting systemic racism and the need for social justice.


The greenhouse effect occurs when gases in Earth’s atmosphere trap heat,
causing the planet’s temperature to rise and influencing climate patterns.

Cartoons for Comedian Johann König’s “Happiness is Family” Book

Books, Children, Collage

I made some black-and-white cartoons for the book Familie macht glücklich: Das muss man sich nur IMMER WIEDER sagen (Happiness is Family: Keep Telling Yourself That), written by German comedian Johann König (LÜBBE).

The author is celebrated for his dry and laconic humor. In this book, he humorously narrates his experiences during challenging times, such as surviving lockdowns, panic buying, homeschooling – and, in a surprisingly wholesome twist, adopting chickens to care for with his family!

He also delves into managing quirky relatives, especially when some become unconventional critics during crises. Through his witty storytelling, König emphasizes that, despite the chaos, family remains the most reliable support system.

→ Buy on Amazon | → Buy at Thalia

Happy, man, farmer, looking, chicken, fence, agriculture, rural, livestock, contentment
Chicken Love

FAMILY: CHAOS, COMEDY, AND CHICKENS

The book (and no, I did not created the cover!) offers an entertaining and insightful look into family life, highlighting both its challenges and joys, as well as the many rewards and pitfalls of keeping chickens.

König’s unique perspective blends humor and reflection, making it a delightful read for those seeking both laughter and a deeper understanding of family bonds.

Waving Good-Bye to the Family During the Pandemic