Caricatures with Character

Bay County caricaturist Deano Minton likens his artistic technique to his personality: “I think I’m fairly gentle and a little naive,” Minton said. “I like to see and instill joy.”

Noting the success of local caricaturists during his stay in Florence, Italy, Minton practiced overnight, hoping to earn extra spending money. The next day, he drew his first subject. “I was so nervous … I forgot to draw teeth in her mouth,” he recalled.

After about 36 years of practice, Minton now does three caricature styles: miniature outline sketches, larger black and white caricatures with ink and wash, and full color. From March to the end of October, Minton works at HarborWalk Village on the Destin Harbor every day starting at noon. During winter, weekends only. He also works parties, conventions and other large gatherings. 

Minton prefers organic inspiration to pre-planning, capturing subjects’ personalities. He asks about hobbies and interests first, determining the action in the caricature and sometimes even facial expressions. Once, this approach proved prophetic. After listening to Billy Bob Thornton describe his independent film project, “Sling Blade,” Minton drew him with an Oscar in his hand — a great story now, since the film actually won Best Adapted Screenplay.