Ever since President Obama entered office, much has been said about his reliance on teleprompters. So I was thrilled when John Van Cleaf at Rutgers Magazine asked me to create a drawing relating to this timely topic. The article was about teleprompter technician, Jeff Sult, and his experiences in this unique line of work. I was asked to come up with a witty representation of his job. It was a fun challenge to visualize a concept that's more about words than images. Of the six ideas submitted, the winning sketch set the stage (both figuratively and literally) for a drawing which gives the teleprompter an opportunity to shine. This technician deserves an Oscar for best supporting role!
For illustrators, the idea process can be just as interesting as creating the final art. I like looking back at submitted sketches to see what worked, and what didn't. Here are a few examples:
Woo Hoo Daniel! This is great!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the great feedback! This whole blogging thing is really fun!
ReplyDeleteJust found your blog, Dan -- looking forward to more of your wit and artistry!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the very kind words Barbara. I hope you enjoy future posts!
ReplyDeleteYour illustration accompanying the article about me was clever and I enjoyed it very much. Of the sketches not used, I particularly like the one depicting a teleprompter technician on a treadmill holding a paper scroll. In the days before computers, I had to tape the prompter script together into long rolls and then run them conveyor belt-style. (No Oscar yet, but I do have an Emmy.)
ReplyDeleteHi Jeff, I'm so glad you got to read this post. I was really impressed with your highly specialized job. I'm sure you have plenty of good stories to to tell! Even though you don't have an Oscar, that Emmy looks pretty darn impressive! Congratulations.
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