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John Taylor's Jazz Caricatures: Charlie Parker

By John Taylor
February 13, 2008
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About John Taylor

For me, art and music flow into a creative confluence. Encouraged by my family to draw and play the drums at an early age, I continue to find expression in these art forms.

Motivation for a career in art and music developed in the 1960's as I observed theme park caricaturists at work and listened to recordings of the inimitable Buddy Rich. Gifted editorial caricaturist, David Levine, also influenced my artwork.

Caricature drawing and jazz music are intuitive, personal modes of expression and one seems to grow out of the other. The rhythm, flow and spontaneity of jazz evoke unorthodox expressions on faces of jazz musicians which are uniquely suited to the caricature medium.

With respect for the highly developed skills of legendary and contemporary jazz masters, I patiently infuse each caricature rendering with characteristic humor and individuality. Each caricature is as unique as the artist himself.

To watch a truly gifted jazz musician play is one of life's inspiring moments. To see the personality of the same musician take shape on my drawing board is an equally inspiring moment for me, as I prod, poke and pencil jazz geniuses.

Through my artwork, I hope to spread the joy of jazz to an ever-increasing audience of jazz enthusiasts.

Visit John Taylor on the web.

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