Before I say anything about myself or my artwork, I must credit the artist for whom the foundation of my work is based, the legendary Al Hirschfeld.
Known for his outlandish and witty style, Hirschfeld made numerous drawings of personalities from theater, film, television, politics and more. It is considered to be a high honor for Hirschfeld to have ever drawn you. Unlike most caricaturists, he would not just distort physical features of his subjects for reaction. Instead he would find his own unique and creative way of using graceful line strokes to bring his characters to life. One of the most amazing things about his work is that some of his more simplistic drawings are as captivating as his most intricate pieces.
In the 1996 Academy Award nominated documentary "The Line King", Hirschfeld attempts to draw one of his caricatures digitally with the computer. After struggling to grasp the new medium, Al admits that the technology is not for him and goes on to say:
"...it is possible to control it, it just requires another lifetime to do it, that's all."
Being a HIRSCHFELD as well as someone who is highly skilled in digital art, I am excited to combine my creative talents with Al's legendary style. For the past several years I have carefully studied many of his drawings, paying close attention to his methods, and in return have found a way to incorporate these elements into my own work. With the mouse of a computer I carefully create my drawings freehand in a format known as vector art.
I don't claim to be the next Al Hirschfeld for I could never match his artistic skill nor his lifetime achievements. I simply do this because I have always admired his work and, above all, I love to draw. Thank you for visiting, I hope you enjoy my work.
Matt Hirschfeld
Illustrator
