: Redman stresses that caricature isn't about random distortion. It’s about identifying a specific trait—like a high forehead or a low chin—and pushing it further in its natural direction.
Exaggeration amplifies a true feature. Distortion destroys the likeness.
Lenn Redman (1912–1987) didn't just draw funny faces; he lived a life of deep conviction and artistic range. He began his career at just 21 during the 1933 Chicago World’s Fair, drawing live caricatures for the "Artist Colony". His talent eventually took him to Hollywood’s "Golden Age of Animation," where he worked for Walt Disney on classics like Fantasia and later for Hanna-Barbera on Saturday morning hits like Superman . How To Draw Caricatures by Lenn Redman - Book Review
Searching for a PDF of Lenn Redman’s "How to Draw Caricatures" is your first step into a rewarding and fun artistic journey. This book is more than just a set of drawing instructions; it's a masterclass from a true legend. Redman’s concepts of "The Inbetweener" and "The 5 Shapes" provide a clear, actionable framework for transforming the way you see and draw faces.
This enduring popularity is no accident. Reviews from artists consistently praise it as "one of the best books for learning cartoon caricature" and "the most comprehensive book ever written on the challenging art and science of drawing caricatures". It’s credited as the first book to treat caricature as a serious artistic principle rather than just a gimmick, and it continues to inspire new generations of artists.
Professional caricaturist Tom Richmond notes the book is "a little dated" but praises its "good insights on observations" and its core concept of the "everyman" ideal. Some readers argue the book is better suited for those with prior drawing experience, wishing for more beginner-friendly step-by-step breakdowns.
Even without the book, you can practice Redman’s method right now:
Before you can exaggerate, you must understand the norm. Redman famously used the concept of an "in-betweener" or an average face to serve as a baseline for comparison. Practice drawing a basic, balanced face. This is your starting point for all future exaggerations.
To understand the book's enduring value, it's important to first know the man who wrote it. Lenn Redman (1912–1987) was far more than an author. He was a prolific artist, animator, and entertainer whose career reads like a history of 20th-century American pop culture.
Lenn Redman was a master of the "C-S-I" method—a simple way to break down any face into basic rhythms. His book, How to Draw Caricatures , is a gold mine for artists because it moves past simple copying and focuses on exaggeration based on truth. The Foundation of a Redman Caricature : Start with one fluid stroke. The Rhythm : Look for repeating curves in the face.
The jaw defines the weight of the caricature. A weak chin can be recessed right into the neck, while a strong, cleft jaw can be transformed into an aggressive, geometric block that anchors the entire drawing. Step 4: Exaggeration vs. Distortion
A good caricature tells a story about the subject's personality. 2. Step-by-Step Caricature Construction
Use thick, heavy lines for the outer silhouette and areas in shadow (like under the chin). Use thin, delicate lines for interior details and wrinkles to keep the drawing from looking messy. Digital and Physical Study Resources
Redman’s style favors clean, confident lines. Use varied line weights—thicker lines for the outer silhouette and shadow areas, and thinner lines for interior details like wrinkles or eye highlights. Understanding the Value of the Text
For decades, aspiring caricature artists have sought a trusted guide to bridge the gap between realistic portraiture and playful distortion. Among the most respected names in the field is , whose book How to Draw Caricatures remains a cornerstone reference. If you’ve searched for a “Lenn Redman PDF,” you’re not alone – but understanding the book’s true value and how to access it legitimately will serve your artistic growth far better than any unauthorized copy.
To put Lenn Redman’s PDF concepts into practice, follow this step-by-step workflow: Step 1: Observation and the "First Impression"