Q: What defines a caricature vs. a cartoon, or is it one of those things that all caricatures are cartoons, but not vice versa? What actually makes a caricature!?
A: Many people lump them together including many artists. They are very similar and interchangeable in some cases but there are distinct differences between the two. A cartoon is a simplified illustration that has a quick, whimsical style to it. Anything can be drawn as a cartoon whether it’s a person, animal or scenery. A caricature is specifically an illustration of a person drawn in an exaggerated style to play up their distinctive features. Some may argue that an animal or even a car or a house can be drawn as a caricature. But unless you have an original point of reference or know the animal, house or car in question, it’s hard to call it a caricature. When you see a famous face as a caricature and recognize it even without a photo to compare it with, that is a successful caricature. The term, caricature, itself has grown to embody the definition of exaggerated and two-dimensional. “Jack Nicholson now acts like a caricature of himself” is an example of how the word has morphed to mean anything that is over-the-top exaggerated. Although many caricatures are drawn in a cartoon style, many can be very detailed or painted in a serious fashion. Below are two samples of caricatures of me which demonstrate a very cartoon style drawing vs. a more rendered approach.
The detailed painting on the left of me by illustrator, Jason Seiler, is a good example of a caricature that is not a cartoon style while the sketch of me on the right, drawn by character designer, Steve Silver, can easily be considered a cartoon style drawing. But in both cases they are considered to be caricatures.
Fall Events: 8 Creative Ways to Elevate Them with Goofy Faces
Fall Events: 8 Creative Ways to Elevate Them with Goofy Faces As the crisp autumn air settles in and the leaves begin to turn, it’s the perfect time to plan...
Top 6 Ways Caricature Artists Enhance Corporate Events
Top 6 Ways Caricature Artists Enhance Corporate Events Planning a corporate event is often similar to walking a tightrope: balancing engagement, impressing clients, and ensuring everything fits within budget -...
6 Unforgettable Wedding Entertainment Ideas
6 Unforgettable Wedding Entertainment Ideas Your wedding day is one of the most special occasions of your life and you want every moment to be unforgettable for both you and...
9 Reasons Goofy Faces Rock School Events!
9 Reasons Goofy Faces Rock School Events! Summer might have just started but the 2024-2025 school year is approaching quickly, and it's time to plan events that excite and engage...
First Communion Celebration: 5 Reasons to Choose Goofy Faces
First Communion Celebration: 5 Reasons to Choose Goofy Faces Your child's first communion is a momentous occasion, a celebration of faith and family. As you begin to plan this special...
Spring into Fun: 5 Reasons to Hire Goofy Faces Caricature Artists!
Spring into Fun: 5 Reasons to Hire Goofy Faces Caricature Artists! Spring is a season of renewal, celebration, and laughter. As the flowers bloom and the days get longer, you...
Discover Goofy Faces’ 7 Retail Locations
Discover Goofy Faces’ 7 Retail Locations Discover Goofy Faces’ 7 Retail Locations Did you know Goofy Faces has seven retail locations throughout the United States? Each...
