Sunday Mailbag- Workshop FAQ?

In this Sunday mailbag I’m answering multiple frequently asked questions about my caricature workshops.

Q: What can I expect to learn at your workshop?

A: We start out going over my general approach to a caricature, how I look at the face and techniques to help see the caricature elements of a subject and how to make decisions on exaggerating them. We dissect and draw about 30 different subjects that vary in age, race, gender and physical attributes while going over both the specific of each face and general lessons in drawing and caricaturing features like the eyes, nose, mouth, hair, etc. I draw along with the class explaining my observations and constructing each caricature. I spend time going around to each student multiple times, looking at what they are drawing, critiquing them, and giving them individual instruction on both their specific drawing and their general tendencies and weaknesses.

Q: Do I need to be an experienced caricaturist or have a lot of drawing skill to take your workshop?

A: The skill levels of those people taking the workshops ranges from the seasoned, professional caricaturist to the rank beginner and all levels in between. The concepts, lessons and exercises we go over apply to any level of caricature ability. That said, you should have some artistic skills already if you want to get the most out of the workshop.

Q: Do you concentrate on live caricature techniques, or illustration?

A: We concentrate on “caricature” as a whole, and most everything that is discussed in the workshop can be applied to both studio and live work. The main focus in on caricature drawing using a linear approach as opposed to painterly, so it does skew towards a live style somewhat, but the general concepts and observational skills taught are universal in application.

Q: How much actual drawing do you do?

A: I am drawing all the time all day long. Students watch me draw the same faces they are drawing, while I talk about what I look for, what I am seeing, and how to draw it.

Q: Will I learn any illustration techniques?

A: I to an inking demo where I explain my inking process and show how to use both dip pens and brushes. I also demonstrate my digital color technique.

Q: Why don’t you just do a video series and sell that online? I just want to look at a screen and not actually work with anybody.

A: Then this workshop is not for you. The class dynamic is an important part of the experience. You are watching me draw what you draw, having me critique and correct your work on the spot, and you have the ability to ask me whatever questions about your work or caricature as they occur to you. You are also working with a group of other artists, seeing what they are drawing and listening to me critique and teach them. Videos give you none of that.

Q: Is my deposit refundable?

A: Yes, up to one month prior to the workshop start date. After that it become non-refundable.

Q: I paid for the entire workshop and now I find I cannot attend. Can I get my money back?

A: That depends. I usually have a waiting list for a workshop and I will contact those on the list and try to replace your spot in the class. If I can do that I will give you a 100% refund. It’s important that you let me know as early as possible if you have to cancel so I can have the best chance to replace you.