Today we’d like to introduce you to Lesdy Sainz.
Hi Lesdy, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I first discovered my passion for caricature art during my third year of studying illustration at CSULB. I remember constantly struggling with drawing realistic people, and my drawings being criticized for looking too much like cartoons. So I decided to embrace my caricature-like quality and apply myself to work at art booths in theme parks, like Knott’s Berry Farm and Disneyland.
At these fun locations, I learned my foundation in creating quick caricature sketches, and developing my personal touch of likeness to each drawing. After dedicating the last six years to developing my caricature skill, I still feel a beautiful sense of adrenaline, fulfillment, and joy from drawing guests at private parties.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Although it has been so satisfying working as a caricature artist, I have experienced some obstacles along the way. I have dealt with rejection, wiggly people, and of course 2020, the year that affected us all.
At a caricature booth, most people have a certain expectation of what their caricature would look like. I’ve accepted that everyone responds differently to the reveal of my sketches, but I think because people have noticed and expressed how much fun I’m having while drawing them, the majority of responses have usually been extremely positive and encouraging. As for people who cannot sit still for the duration of the drawing time, I’ve learned the best way to draw wiggly guests is to photograph them, and work off a photograph taken from my phone. On a more recent note, 2020 was an extremely difficult year for us all, especially for workers in the entertainment industry.
It broke my heart to have all of my momentum come to an extreme halt during the 2020 lockdown. However, I did the best I could to stay creative and connected with my community during quarantine. A year later, we are experiencing a new transitional period, and I can feel my momentum and confidence returning. I am so happy that life is slowly reopening safely, and opportunities to draw at private parties are coming back!
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Every caricature artist has their own twist to traditional caricature art, which has a bit of a reputation for highly exaggerated facial features. This can result in making people feel nervous or self-conscious that their features would be exaggerated in an unflattering way. However, after working at Southern California theme parks and all kinds of events, I have specialized in a cute, elegant, and flattering cartoon style. My sketches have evolved to attract the majority of guests who prefer to be drawn sweetly, without too much exaggeration. My intention will always be to provide guests with a fun, lighthearted experience, and high quality sketches for those who’d like to be drawn,
What do you like and dislike about the city?
I absolutely love everything about San Diego!! Specifically, I love the dog-friendly community, the beautiful beaches, the parks, the nightlife, and the weather. To be honest, every visit to San Diego has always been enjoyable, I have no complaints about one of my favorite cities!
Contact Info:
- Email: sainz.lesdybetty@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/littlelezdee_art
