How to Draw Caricatures by Lenn Redman , first published in 1984, remains a foundational text for caricature artists . Redman, who created over 200,000 caricatures in his lifetime, uses the book to teach a unique method based on observing facial relationships rather than just individual features . Core Concepts of Redman’s Method
The "In-Betweener": This is Redman's central concept for making observations . It involves using classic portraiture proportions as a neutral reference point; any feature on a subject that differs from this "average" becomes a target for exaggeration .
The Five Essential Shapes: Redman simplifies the human face into five basic components: a circle (head), an oval (face), two smaller circles or ovals (eyes), and a line (mouth) .
Relationship Manipulation: Effective caricatures come from changing the distance, size, and angle between these five shapes . For instance, if eyes are close together, the artist might draw them even closer to emphasize that trait .
Exaggerate, Don't Distort: A key rule in the book is that an artist should exaggerate what is already there rather than distorting features randomly . What’s Inside the Book How To Draw Caricatures: Redman, Lenn - Amazon.com
Searching for "how to draw caricatures lenn redman pdf" is not just about finding a file. It is an act of artistic archaeology. You are seeking a mentor who speaks in witty observations rather than dry anatomical terms. how to draw caricatures lenn redman pdf
Redman’s book is a time machine. It takes you back to a New York City newsroom in the 1970s, where a pen and a napkin were all you needed to capture the essence of a human being. In an age of AI-generated portraits and filter-based apps, learning Redman’s method is a rebellious act. It is analog. It is human. It is funny.
Your Action Plan:
Do not just collect the PDF. Use it. Wear it out. Because as Lenn Redman said, "The only bad caricature is the one you didn't draw."
Have you successfully found and used the Lenn Redman PDF? Share your before-and-after caricature sketches in the comments below (or on our forum). Let’s keep the art of exaggeration alive.
Lenn Redman was a master of the "C-S-I" method—a simple way to break down any face into basic rhythms. His book, How to Draw Caricatures, is a gold mine for artists because it moves past simple copying and focuses on exaggeration based on truth. The Foundation of a Redman Caricature The "Line of Action": Start with one fluid stroke. The Rhythm: Look for repeating curves in the face. How to Draw Caricatures by Lenn Redman ,
The Big Shape: Identify if the head is a pear, egg, or bulb.
Feature Placement: Find the "anchor" (usually the nose or eyes). Step-by-Step Story of a Sketch
The Observation: Look at your subject for ten seconds without drawing.
The C-S-I Filter: Determine if the profile follows a C curve, an S curve, or a straight I line.
The Exaggeration: If the chin is small, make it a button; if the nose is long, let it lead the face. Conclusion: Why You Need This PDF in Your
The Simplification: Use as few lines as possible to capture the most character.
💡 Key Concept: Redman taught that a caricature isn't a "mean" drawing; it’s a drawing that is more like the person than a photograph is. Finding the Guide
While I cannot provide a direct PDF download of copyrighted material, you can often find Redman's techniques through:
Archive.org: Many classic art instruction books are digitized there for loan.
Used Bookstores: Look for the 1984 Contemporary Books edition.
Art Forums: Communities like Cartoonist's Workshop often dissect his specific "Line of Action" methods. If you want to practice right now, tell me: Whom you want to draw (a celebrity or a friend)? What feature stands out most to you about them?
I can walk you through the Redman-style steps for that specific face.