Why I use caricature in my art?

Caricature has always been a special part of my art, but the story behind it is deeply personal and full of meaning. For me, it’s more than just a way to make people laugh, it’s a tool for connection, expression, and resilience. Let me share with you why I chose caricature as my favorite way to create art.

A childhood of conformity and creativity

Growing up in communist Romania, life was tough. There wasn’t much room for individuality, and expressing yourself could be dangerous. I was born left-handed, which made me different from the other kids. My teachers didn’t like that. They tied my left hand behind my back and forced me to write with my right. It was hard, but something inside me refused to be silenced.

Art became my escape. Though I had to conform in school, I would sketch secretly with my left hand, letting my creativity flow when no one was looking. Even as a child, drawing became my way of pushing back against the restrictions I faced. I couldn’t say much out loud, but through my drawings, I could express everything I felt.

Caricature in the army: Humor in hard times

As a teenager, I was drafted into the army, like many young men of my generation. Life in the military was strict, and at times, it felt overwhelming. But that’s when my art took on a new life.

I started drawing caricatures of my fellow soldiers. I exaggerated their faces, making their noses bigger or their eyes wider, capturing their personalities in a fun way. These drawings made people smile and laugh, and in the middle of all the seriousness, those little moments of joy became important. My art lightened the mood, brought us closer, and gave us a reason to laugh, even during tough times.

Before long, some of my comrades asked me to turn my drawings into tattoos. They wanted those funny characters permanently inked on their skin as a reminder of the good times we shared, even in difficult circumstances.

The power of caricature: Telling a story with a smile

Caricature allowed me to say a lot with just a few lines. It gave me the freedom to show people’s true personalities in a way that was both playful and meaningful. Over time, I realized that my caricatures weren’t just about humor, they were about capturing the essence of someone, telling their story in a unique way.

When I draw a caricature, I’m not just looking at someone’s physical features. I try to capture their energy, their spirit, and the little details that make them who they are. I want my art to bring out the fun and joy in life, even when times are hard. Caricature lets me do that.

Finding inspiration in new places

After the Romanian Revolution of 1989, I left my country to find work abroad. I spent time in different countries, drawing everywhere I went. My caricatures became a way to connect with new people. Wherever I traveled, I sketched the faces of strangers, turning them into exaggerated but kind portraits. It was amazing how something as simple as a drawing could break down barriers and create new friendships.

Eventually, I settled in Amsterdam with my family, and my art has continued to evolve. Here, in this vibrant city, I’ve found a new source of inspiration. I still use caricature because it helps me tell the story of resilience, humor, and the beauty of life that I’ve experienced.

Why I still love caricature

Caricature is more than just a style for me, it’s a way to bring joy and understanding to the world. It reminds us not to take ourselves too seriously and shows us that, no matter where we come from, we all have something in common: the ability to laugh at life.

Through my art, I hope to continue sharing that message. Caricature is my way of saying:

“We’ve been through a lot, but we can still find reasons to smile.”

Thank you for joining me on this journey, and I hope my caricatures bring a little light to your day!