By Elizabeth McPherson  

Editorial Cartooning is an art form most people can relate to and appreciate.  Whether it's the political cartoons that keep us thinking or the silly cartoons that accompany articles, this field is full of diverse styles and moods.  The artists that work it face daily challenges of keeping up with trends and breaking news stories.

Rick Sherman is one of those artists, and TCP asked him to share about his work and his faith.  He is a freelance artist living in…. with daily printings in various newspapers and magazines.  His work is mostly in black and white medium; however, he also does occasional colored pieces and illustrations for stories and articles.  His experience and knowledge is highly beneficial for artists looking to enter a field such as this.

TCP: What are the favorite pieces you've done?
Sherman: A montage of George Bush, Barack Obama, and Congressman Don Manzullo for a cover piece for their being elected. Also, a color piece of Noah with some animal friends, and a pencil piece I call 'Eve, Observed.'

TCP: Do you work on your Art daily?
Sherman: Yes. Well, six times a week- M-S, with Sunday reserved for Church and family.

TCP: Is Art your sole profession?
Sherman: Currently, yes.

TCP: How do you make it work in today's competitive market?
Sherman: The key is quality, timeliness, perseverance and a knowledge of the market you are working. Never fear the phone. It is your ally. Papers, publishers and
writers will never know the blessings of a good illustrator if they can't
find you, or if you don't approach them.  Don't take rejection personally- there are plenty of fish in the sea. You just have to be the one that's wanted.

TCP: How do you define 'Christian Art' and do you think there is a market
for it today?
Sherman: Hmmm… Christian Art. Christian Art is really anything that
encourages, uplifts, strengthens, teaches and most importantly, gives glory
to God. That can be in any form- painting, drawing, song, dance, writing…
whatever. To God be the glory—and if we seek to bring that to the forefront,
then it catches on.

TCP: Does your spiritual life affect your work?
Sherman: Oh, I'll tell you what- I pray constantly. Especially before I do a piece- to get the inspiration- and then during the piece, to stay in touch with the Master's will. I want to make sure that when the piece is done, it has made its point without truly hurting anyone—but instead, provoking thought that will ultimately bring
the glory to the Lord.

TCP: What type of work would you like to do in the future?
Sherman: More editorial cartooning. Illustrating- book, magazine, poster, whatever. Possibly some comics or comic book work. It depends on the genre for that.

TCP: Any formal training?--and do you think this is necessary?
Sherman: Some. A little way back when. But I am a firm believer in formal training. Not to change a style, but specifically for the practical application. I am a pragmatist
when it comes to that.

TCP: What's the best way for people to contact you for future work?
Sherman: Email me or call. My websites are being re-constructed and I am hoping they'll be up and running again by the beginning of April.

TCP: Has any of your work been published, and if so, where?
Sherman: Yes, in numerous newspapers, magazines and periodicals. I am published daily in newspapers for my editorial cartoons. Hopefully, that will keep growing. But mostly, I
try to bring a professional cartoonist to every small or local paper, so that they have the opportunity to receive personal attention that they deserve.

TCP: How did you accomplish this?
Sherman: I went on line, found magazines, papers and periodicals, and called the editors.  Then I sent samples and followed up. It never hurts to ask, and you can't get work if you're not willing to seek and ask for it.

TCP: Any advice for aspiring artists?
Sherman: Two things, actually: Winston Churchill said: "Never give up!" The Lord says: "I can accomplish all things through Christ Jesus who strengthens me."

To learn more about Richard Sherman, visit: him at www.shermanart.biz or online at www.themonroetimes.com where you can click on the 'Sherman Cartoon' link.

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