Bernie Tennis

Hello, and thanks for checking out my Caricature page! I have been drawing caricatures live at all types of events throughout the Midwest (WI, IL, IA, MN, MI) for over 18 years.
My goals are speed and likeness. I try to produce drawings the subjects would wish to frame and hang. An important part of my performance is in the process, the show, and so I work large, 18X24, with a vertical easel set up for easy viewing by onlookers and those in line. My location usually becomes a gathering spot for socializing. People will crowd around to see the show, line up, and joke and laugh with their friends. It's an opportunity for guests to converse and enjoy a shared activity, a focal point that prompts them to move around and mingle.
My style may be described as 'portrait with a bit of caricature'. I treat people with respect, often engaging them in conversation to elicit natural expressions and keep them at ease. I do my best to see that everyone has a good time and gets a GREAT drawing.
I use Caran d'Ache Neocolor painting crayons, which produce charcoal-like drawings in B/W, but are not dusty and are permanent when applied (no smearing occurs and no fixative spray is required). This medium lends itself to live caricature since large detailed drawings can be produced very quickly (4-5 minutes per person in B/W). I use broad strokes to define large areas, and detailed lines and marks to finish the drawing.

I will travel anywhere in the Midwest: Wisconsin, Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Chicago, Milwaukee, Rockford, Quad-cities, Minneapolis/St Paul, and more. I am also available further afield for longer bookings.