By Danny Zemp
The devastation of the Australian bushfires has generated an outpouring of generosity amongst Australians. The sheer breadth of donations has been astounding, and people with all types of talents are using their unique talent to raise money for the bushfire effort. One of those people helping to raise money for the bushfire relief is our very own cartoonist and Healesville resident DANNY ZEMP, who is taking part in the Caricature for Fire relief event at Docklands on 8 February.
Here I have a confused and bewildered face sitting opposite me. There are a thousand thoughts racing through that person’s head.
“What if I get a big nose, or crossed eyes, fat lips or a wry smile?”
That face is about to get drawn, by me or another highly talented caricaturist.
As a keen reader of this fine paper, you probably noticed by now that this isn’t one of the regular reporters writing.
So, let me introduce myself briefly. I’m Danny and I draw cartoons. I’m a cartoonist, and I only do this writing business for an excellent cause, which I will get to later.
You’ve probably seen my work before, and often, right here, in this paper. Yes, the cartoons are done by me!
I think in pictures, not words. But, it is fascinating to tell a story in words, for a change. For me, it’s wildly chaotic and all over the shop, because that’s how I operate. So, two things may happen from here. Either you get hooked and want to see where this rabbit hole takes you, or you are already lost. If you are the latter, it was nice to have you here.
Now, for the more adventurous of you, the explorer and general sticky beak, I want you to carry on. This fantastic thing we are doing is a caricature day at the Docklands District.
I don’t think anyone can forget the images from the terrible bushfires that have burnt parts of Victoria, and the devastation it caused to residents of all kinds. Those who can put shoes on should be looked after, by various organizations, but the ones that sport fur, feathers or scales need us.
So, to help those who can’t help themselves, us cartoonists and caricaturists from near and far will draw faces on Saturday, 8 February from 12:30pm onwards at the Australian Cartoon Museum. You will find us at shop 17 in the Docklands District off Wharf Street. We will be donating our time and all you need to do is bring yourself and your donations.
This is an exclusive chance to have your face drawn by some of Australia’s leading caricaturist and cartoonists, and all proceeds will go to Wildlife Victoria. Then those lovely people will look after the injured and distressed animals.
Everyone is a winner in this. You get a caricature of yourself, your better half, your pet, father, mother, son, daughter or uncle. You will smile, because, smiles are guaranteed, and you’ll be helping our poor wildlife, so that should make you feel warm and fuzzy. Winners all ‘round.
So tell your friends, your family, tell everyone on social media, on the bus or tram, at your coffee shop, even at the traffic lights. We want you to come to the Australian Cartoon Museum and take home a bucket of smiles.
