Bill LaRocque - Cartoonist Survey #117

Nationally published cartoonist and caricaturist, Bill LaRocque grew up here in my home state of Massachusetts. He drew editorial and gag cartoons for his school and college newspapers and magazines. Bill began his career as a system programmer for the US Air Force where his drawings appeared in the base newspaper. He ended up spending 40 years as an IT Director and management consultant in Washington, DC while also freelancing as a cartoonist for association and research publications. His editorial cartoons and caricatures were featured in Washington Post's Weekly Edition and AOL's Digital City feature; Washingtoons. Through the years Bill has done caricatures and illustrations for many corporations including, the National Association of Broadcasters, the National Academy of Sciences, Pricewaterhouse, Macy’s, Deliotte Touche and General Dynamics. He has taught cartoon art at Anne Arundel Community College, an art academy, a private school and an adult education program. Retired now and living in Asheville, NC, Bill still does caricature parties and he also teaches a cartoon art course at UNCA. He is a member of the National Cartoonists Society and the National Caricaturists Network. Stop by Bill's website and follow his online journal, 'Just Kidding'.

What is your favorite pen to use?
These days, a Wacom stylus. Before, a Micron 03.

Do you draw in pencil first and if so do you use a standard pencil or a mechanical one?
Digital, I sketch on a different layer. Before, a mechanical.

Do you do your coloring by hand or on the computer?
Both.

If you do your coloring by hand, what do you use?
Watercolor.

What type of paper do you use?
Bristol 2-ply.

What thing(s) do you hate to draw?
Nothing.

Do you buy your supplies from big chain art store catalogues/websites or a local one that you physically go to?
Both.

Are there any rituals that you do before starting to draw?
No.

Do you listen to music while you draw and if so what genre?
Yes, classical and jazz.

Did you read comics as a kid and if so what was your favorite?
Plasticman.

What is or was your favorite comic strip?
Pogo.

What was your favorite book as a child and do you still own a copy of it?
No.

Did you have any formal art training and if so where did you receive it?
Yes, Museum School, Boston, MA.

Do you feel that the Internet is a blessing or a curse?
It is the present and future, period.

Did either of your parents draw?
Yes.

Who in your life is/was the most supportive of your art?
Me and partner.

Do you keep a sketchbook?
Sketchbook/Journal, yes for 30+ years.

Have you ever taught cartooning/drawing and if so did you enjoy the experience?
I still do and love it.

Do you feel that talent or passion is more important in drawing?
Passion.

Do you collect anything and if so what?
No.

If you were an animated cartoon character who do you think you would be?
Krazy Kat.

Are you a righty or lefty?
Right-handed.

If you weren't an artist what would you want to do for work?
Architect.

In one or two sentences describe your drawing area.
These days, large screens and printer/scanners.

Do you play any musical instruments?
No.

If you could give one piece of advice to someone who wants to pursue drawing as a career what would it be?
Draw every day.

Who is your favorite artist?
Thomas Cole.

Thank you Bill.

Answers from designer, illustrator and cartoonist, Kevin Spear are next.