Die arbeit des gerichtszeichners

brief

To complete my apprenticeship as a graphic designer, every student was required to undertake an in-depth project (Vertiefungsarbeit) on a topic of their own choosing. As I had repeatedly come across courtroom drawings in the newspaper, I decided to step into the role of a professional courtroom sketch artist and to familiarise myself with the process. The subject of my in-depth project was therefore the work of the courtroom sketch artist.

Concept

I conducted an interview with an experienced courtroom sketch artist in order to acquire the necessary background knowledge. In it, I asked him about the nature of the work, the procedures involved, and the drawing techniques employed. I also enquired about his personal views on, and attitude towards, courtroom sketching. In addition, I carried out a self-experiment to discover what it is like to draw in a courtroom setting. Applying the knowledge gained from the interview, I sketched a defendant during a trial. In my project, I demonstrate how I prepared for the hearing from an artistic standpoint. I describe the drawing technique in several steps and discuss the materials required. Finally, I provide a documentary account of the court case itself.