A courtroom artist is a painter who creates images of courtroom scenes. Many courtrooms do not allow cameras, so the only way to tell the outside world what is going on in court is through courtroom sketches and reports from journalists seated inside. In many parts of the world, the tradition of banning cameras from courtrooms is slowly fading, though some high courts have maintained the practice, arguing that it interferes with the trial and the court’s dignity. In some areas, the increased acceptance of cameras in court has made pursuing a career as a courtroom artist difficult.
Only a few courtroom artists specialize in courtroom sketches, but this is uncommon. In addition to drawing in the courtroom, many have larger art careers and work in a variety of styles and media. Although some full-time courtroom artists are employed by specific news agencies or networks, it is common for a courtroom artist to work as a freelancer, selling work to whichever news agency offers the best price.
Courtroom sketches are well-known to many people. These quick sketches are meant to convey a vivid impression of the scene in the courtroom. The courtroom artist’s work depicts facial expressions, gestures, styles, and moods, and it is used to illustrate courtroom proceedings. Quick sketches were once used as the basis for etchings and engravings for more formal records, but this practice is no longer widely practiced. Courtrooms are one of the few places where artists are still used to provide a permanent record of events rather than cameras.
A typical courtroom artist has graduated from art school and may have received additional courtroom art training. Some come from a caricature background, so they’re used to working quickly and under pressure. Many students spend hours practicing in the courtroom during art school, attending open-to-the-public trials to learn the ropes and become comfortable in the courtroom.
Pastel, pencil, pen, and a variety of other media are used by courtroom artists. They must generally use non-disruptive media; for example, setting up a large canvas for an oil painting in the court would be prohibited. Many courtroom artists develop a distinct style that may be recognized by those who follow the court beat, while others may stick to a more generic and well-known look and feel.
For an artist, this type of work can be very interesting. Every day, it provides opportunities to learn about portraiture from new people and to improve a variety of drawing skills. Some courtroom artists gain a great deal of knowledge about the practice of law along the way, which they can apply to their work.