Harley Charlie

Charlie has been a good friend of mine.  He's a big guy, but a gentle-gaint—as I refer to him. On more than one occasion He, and his sweet wife Lydia have treated my wife and I with kindness and generosity. For a couple of years now I've been wanted to try and repay his kindness by drawing a caricature of him on his bike. Last week I took the opportunity to create one for him. There was a motorcycle rally a couple of years ago at our church. During the event I snuck out to the parking lot and took some photos of his Harley—and '02 Deuce. It's a long machine—has to be to accommodate a big guy like Charlie.  

Last night, at church, I told Charlie that I wanted to show him some- thing after- wards.  He said, "Does it have something to do with motorcycles?" "Yes."  "Alright I'll look forward to that," He said.  So afterwards I gave him a paper sack with his doodle in it.  I LOVED the smile on his face when he saw it.  He was totally surprised.  It was a three-hugger response.

This is a photo of the illustration, so the quality is not the best.  But I really love how this one turned out.  I took great care in getting it done.  I wanted it just right.  It's always a challenge to get the arms and legs to fit on the bike just right.  I like the doodle, but more importantly I really loved enjoying surprising a good friend.