Today we’d like to introduce you to Cliff Bayuga.
Cliff, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I was a Graphic Artist/Illustrator/Studio Manager for the first 30 years of my career. By the time I was turning 50, I realized that I hated my career! So tired of the politics and backstabbing working either the corporate or even the smaller studio environment. So I decided to start a new career. It was around the economic downturn 2008 so not to a great time to start over. But I started over anyway. I knew I was good at drawing faces. So I decided to become a caricature artist. Out of work at the time, my wife drove me to the library every morning and within a two week period I had taught myself to be a caricature artist.
Within a couple of months, I got a job drawing caricatures at the Universal Studios Hollywood Theme Park. Six months later, I became the manager of 25 artists at the park. A year and a half later, I left Universal to work at the Los Angeles Zoo for a company called Goofy Faces. Three months later, I became the manager overseeing both the caricature artists and the face painters. About five years later, I became the Manager of both the LA Zoo and the Aquarium of the Pacific located in Long Beach, CA. I currently manage only the Aquarium of the Pacific. In addition, I am the Vice President of Retail Operations for Good Faces nationwide locations. My focus the last year and half is creating my own caricature products while still managing the Aquarium and working live gigs for private parties and corporate events.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Actually since I began my career as a caricature, it has basically been a smooth road. I can’t believe I make a living drawing cartoon faces!
We’d love to hear more about your work and what you are currently focused on. What else should we know?
I draw caricatures for money five different ways. Retail caricatures. At the Aquarium drawing caricatures for aquarium visitors (commission only plus tips). Live caricatures for private parties and events (I have an hourly rate). Commissions. Online caricatures/illustrations for individuals or small businesses/corporations. Caricature products. I create caricatures and place them on products (magnets, pins, t-shirts, tc.). Consulting/supervising/managing the Aquarium of the Pacific for Goofy Faces.
What sets me apart from other caricature arts is that I don’t draw “big nose, big ears” caricatures. My drawings will the subject look good or even better.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
My wife for supporting me and standing by me especially at the beginning of my caricature career.
Being an older guy, my staffs at both the Aquarium and the zoo were and are a great inspiration me. They keep me current and just being around their talent pushes me to improve every day!
Two other caricature colleagues George Huante and Melita Lewis have basically been with me since the beginning of my caricature career. They have helped me stay in business by providing e numerous gigs over the years. Their professionalism and generosity always inspire me.
Pricing:
- Live bookings. $115 per hour. Two hour minimum
- Commissions require a quote.. But basically start at 25 per person.
Contact Info:
- Website: cliffcaricature.com
- Phone: 310 897 8387
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: @cliffcaricature
- Other: whatsabayuga.com
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