It's probably my favorite holiday, what with families
gathered and turkeys, et al. consumed by the tonnage. Or at least it seems that
way when I have to open another one, or two, notches on my belt upon finally
pushing away the plate.
Thanksgiving, of course, means just that: giving thanks for
our "bounty" -- as Americans who have, whether by the providential dint
of being born here...or the self-achieved privilege of choosing to live here... enjoyed a
quality of life virtually unmatched anywhere else on the planet.
Welcome to the Thanksgiving edition of Not Your Usual Caricature Artist
from Caricatures by Joel.
According to Wikipedia, "Thanksgiving, currently celebrated on the
fourth Thursday in November by federal legislation in 1941, has been an annual
tradition in the United States by presidential proclamation since 1863 and by
state legislation since the founding
fathers of the United States. Historically, Thanksgiving has
traditionally been a celebration of the blessings of the (agricultural) year,
including the harvest."
I try not to take that for granted. I also try not to take for granted the "gift"
I come by genetically -- that of being able to draw, and to draw caricatures in
particular.
My father Sam was a professional illustrator, comic book
artist and commercial art director; my mother Corinne was a skilled painter and
sculptress. My two siblings were blessed as well -- my late sister Barbara was
a gifted artist and art teacher, and my surviving sister Jean is very talented
in her own right and likes to dabble on occasion.
Here, to pay homage to each, are samples of their work:
"Irv Wesley" was a pen name (literally), my father used on occasion when illustrating a
series of comic book titles for Stan Lee and Marvel. Here, he was
responsible for doing the initial pencil illustration...after which it
would be inked and colored by two other individuals.
Barbara's stylized painting of my mother.
Jeannie's rendering from an old photo of our Dad as a child riding a pony.
I've joined the gallery here with a commissioned work of an
engaged couple who enjoy tailgating (with images pertinent only to
them).
This month of "Turkey Day" -- and every day of every month -- I give thanks to each member of
my family for their support and the measure of their talents that have inspired me.
Happy Thanksgiving...and see you again the first Tuesday of
next month for another tryptophan-free helping of Not Your Usual Caricature
Artist.
