Oscar E. Alonso Illustration

I try to keep my routine and setup simple. I'm going to express myself as a lone caricaturist.

I provide the paper.

No one likes to work in an uncomfortable space so I ask for enough room to accommodate myself and the guests who would be sitting for me. I bring my own pens, and in some cases, extra swag; rubber bands. As a professional I work with professional tools. My illustration tools are pencils and alcohol markers. They can have a strong scent (like most markers do) but it isn't off putting. I personally DO NOT have signage and I do accept tips (unless the client specifically requests not to). There will be no canopies or massive arrangements that come with me. I work in black and white (color can cost more and is more time consuming).

Any extra equipment such as tables and chairs are welcome, Normally it's the client who provides the seating. At least 3 chairs will do (one for me, two for guests), on occasion more helps depending on the number of guests getting caricatures. Any other assortment will do, a bench, picnic table, couch, bean bag, etc. for seating. I've drawn groups of 10 or more.

Depending on the conditions, particularly for outdoor events, a shaded area is preferred if the weather's too warm. A warm area if the weather's too cold (I can't draw in cold or freezing conditions). If the event's indoors the same rules apply. It's important to be in an area where your guests won't be obstructing others or the event. Personally, I'd prefer not to be next to the band or speakers if that's part of the event.

If the event's scheduled for more than 2 hours it's good to have a few minutes to stretch out for a few minutes. If food or refreshments are available, I would likely accept. Who turns down a good pizza? Although drawing and eating isn't conducive to better caricatures. I try to take care of that before an event.

I speak with the guests as part of my routine, it helps me to learn something about them that I may include in their drawing. People tend to loosen up because it's odd having a stranger (me) stare at you for 5 minutes. Some guests aren't talkative and there's very little talking. I enjoy drawing anyone but usually have more fun with children, they're either eager, shy, or tired and it's my goal to bring a smile to their faces.

I wear what you request; is the event formal, casual, corporate? I like to be comfortable so I ask that the client's be clear on the proper or expected attire from me.

My experience has taught me that no two events are exactly the same, some situations tend to come up regularly which affect the expected service. As mentioned I'm providing info as the single caricaturist. For events of 30 or more guests it's recommended that clients hire more than one caricature artist. A 2 hour window makes it difficult to guarantee every guest who wants a caricature gets one. No one wants guests to go home unhappy, especially the caricaturist.

I will ask BEFORE I stay past my agreed to time if the client wants to pay additional for the extra time. I also ask that the client monitors, or cuts off the line, if the end time is approaching.

Children are welcome but in some events they disrupt the line of guests as they keep coming back for caricatures (since they're free). Sometimes they're unaware there's a line. I usually have a soft rule that it's 1 drawing per person for the night (there are exceptions). Some guests have special requests; commonly they'll ask to include someone who's not present from a photo in their phone, or their pet. If I can accommodate them I will do so but these requests add to the time and I'd prefer not to.

Finally; a proper address, access to parking are a must. If the event's a wedding it's important that the Bride and Groom get a caricature. It can be done during the event. I'm sure no one will mind if the couple skips the line. Or, for a separate fee, it can be arranged with me BEFORE the event.

There may be minor details missing but this covers most of the routine.

The first question I get is how long have you been doing this? The simple answer is for about 5 years. The deeper answer is I did this when I was younger for a while and I wasn't quite ready for it artistically speaking, Caricatures aren't just cartoons, they're memories for the subjects and they should be reflective of them.

I moved to Utah at the end of 2019 from Florida and a friend here asked if I'd be interested in helping them with caricatures. Based on my past experiences I was hesitant but after 5+ years of dedicating myself to being a better caricaturist I'm glad to say that I've found my groove.

I enjoy meeting people and talking with them. Some people are nervous about getting a caricature and I assure them it's not about capturing a photographic likeness, it's about having fun. I ask everyone who sits for me if they've ever had a caricature and their answers help me engage them and put them at ease.

I've been a professional illustrator for my entire adult life. I currently reside with my wife and son, two dogs and a cat (a hummingbird who visits daily too) in Millcreek since 2023.

All drawings are analog, meaning on paper. I do not provide digital caricatures on the spot, do not have a portable printer.
Good lighting (a regularly lit room will do). Outdoors during the day and in good conditions, a shaded spot (tree or canopy is acceptable). High winds, rain, cold, excessive heat or unstable surroundings are not good work areas.
At conventions most events are in dark halls or low light parties, all I ask is that I have enough light to see the guests as well as my paper without straining. I can't draw in the dark.
A surface is welcome (a table, picnic table, a counter) but not required. I bring my own drawing easel which I hold in my lap (it's like a giant clipboard).
Client must be specific if they're looking for a certain type of art/style. I.e. colors, fashion style, themed art (movies, superheroes, princess). I keep my content family friendly and don't mix up my content. I don't discriminate when it comes to what the client wants but I err on the side of caution. If there's something the client expects it should be specified.