Student’s Life

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I still vividly remember my student days, when life is a constant struggle. I was an art student that studied abroad. I was enrolled in a Design School in Wanganui, New Zealand on a scholarship. Our scholarship expenses was barely enough to cover rent and expenses. Art material and stationeries for our art project were too expensive and most of us except for a few, were left without much to spend by mid of the month.

To make ends meet, most of us took up part-time job such as picking apples and strawberries or work at the local fast food joints. There were times when we missed out on our rent and received numerous warnings from our Landlord. Eating only a meal a day become a common practice.

My Venture into Caricature

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This is a tearjerker till today, but it reminds me of my struggles. I have waited behind K-Mart supermarket for the disposal of expired bread. This fed me and my housemate while we await for our next allowance. My survival instinct took over. I found an art and craft market around the corner. I met my senior who was drawing portrait there. He earned good money. I asked if I can join him. That was how I became a caricature artist.

Malaysia’s Caricature Scene

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Back in Malaysia 20 years ago, caricature was something new. I met with the pioneer such as Mr. Ambio and Mr. Don who were plying their trade in the streets of Bukit Bintang, Kuala Lumpur. They were awesome people. Job do not always come frequently and there are times when I am without any job. They asked me to join them in their social event. That was when I discovered that I truly enjoy meeting new and creative people.

I guess @anasgallery also shares the same problem that I had faced in the past. I actually love what I am doing although it does not always return monetary rewards like how we wished it would. That was why I turned to teaching as my main source of income.

Caricaturing Life

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People say you can reduce emotions and pen it on canvas. I felt that could not be more true. When I drew faces, I learnt about their personalities. I remember drawing a beautiful lady who looked cheerful but I felt there is a deep seated sadness in her. I drew a couple that was so much in love that it felt like they were the only two souls left in the world. I drew a lonely guy who tried to appear cool and acceptable but he was awkward.

After years in the street doing caricature, I also learnt a trick, if the drawing does not capture the essence of the person that was drawn, just tell them that their features are too unique or too beautiful to be drawn. They are usually pleased with the answer.

Most of the time, drawing caricature gives me the freedom to test my new strokes. I feel like a kungfu master when I said that. It is also a feel good factor because many of the subject when they draw caricature they want a fun image and most of the time, they are pretty happy with the result.

Caricaturing Now

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This is me now, long after the days of waiting for discarded breads. Now I only do caricature part-time for parties, annual dinners or social events on invitation. My schedule in the academia has taken the giant’s share of my time. But one thing is for sure, if I am invited for the next Steemfest to caricature, I am sure to make myself available.