When I draw caricatures at events I will meet people who sit down to be drawn but are nervous about it. Sometimes this surprises me because caricatures are supposed to be good fun, but then I remember that when I see caricaturists at events I also get self conscious and nervous.
No one likes to be ridiculed. People enjoy seeing themselves as cartoons, but they do not want to be embarrassed. It takes courage to sit down in front of a caricaturist.
Further, when my subjects are nervous I have noticed that my drawings never turn out as well. I pick up “their vibe” and draw more tentatively. Fear replaces flair and the whole experience is awkward indeed.
Conversely, when I have subjects who are not self conscious and are open to any scenario, situation, etc. I always draw better. They may ask me jokingly to improve aspects of their appearance but I usually counter with “I’m not a plastic surgeon” and we all have a good laugh.
My favourite subjects? Young kids, couples in love, and women over 50 who belong to a sports team or tour group. They don’t care about the end result and they are out to have fun! And these drawings almost always exceed their expectations.
Caricatures are just an excuse to connect with others and share some humour. Political correctness and social demands be damned. Life is short and we should laugh!