Drawn in the dock: the story of UK courtroom illustration (2020)
5 days ago
- #courtroom illustration
- #visual journalism
- #legal art
- There are only four professional courtroom sketch artists in the UK: Priscilla Coleman, Siân Frances, Julia Quenzler, and Elizabeth Cook.
- Courtroom illustration is a dying art due to new laws allowing cameras into British courts, threatening the future of the discipline.
- Artists must rely on memory and quick sketches, as drawing or photographing in British courts is illegal.
- Priscilla Coleman, with a background in art direction, has been a courtroom illustrator since the 1980s, capturing high-profile cases.
- Courtroom sketches are created under tight deadlines, often with just an hour or two to complete and deliver to publishers.
- Different artists have distinct styles: Priscilla's are vibrant and dynamic, Julia and Elizabeth's are more static and focused, while Siân's are illustrative with pencil and watercolor.
- The ban on courtroom images in the UK dates back to 1925, following media interference in the Thompson and Bywaters trial.
- Cameras in courts raise concerns about sensationalism, witness protection, and the loss of the unique perspective offered by courtroom artists.
- Courtroom illustrations provide a narrative and emotional depth that cameras may not capture, offering a unique insight into the legal process.
- Despite the challenges, courtroom illustration remains a significant and respected form of visual journalism, with potential for future artists to innovate.