Job Description

What: A forensic sketch artist interviews witnesses and victims of crime, gathering information about the appearance of a suspect, and drawing a sketch to match that description. Computers are sometimes used to help construct pictures. They also sketch or use computer graphics to generate images of missing people, showing how they might have aged. They may sketch a reconstruction of a crime scene from forensic information. A sculpture artist may reconstruct faces to help identify skeletal remains. You need to be able to draw a detailed and accurate portrait or scene from imagination. This skill is based on hours of drawing from life. For drawing of crime scenes, as a forensic artist you’ll need to be able to draw using correct perspective, accurately rendering three-dimensional objects, and using your imagination to reconstruct scenes, often with limited information – but still accurately placing the information that is available. Unlike the old Wild West and Bollywood films where the criminal’s hand-drawn portrait carrying a cash reward on his head, modern-day forensic artists are far more tech savvy. They use computerized image enhancement or morphology not merely as forensic tools but as evidence in court. There are numerous instances where forensic artists have been called upon to track criminals — the latest being the deadly Delhi bombings. As a forensic artist you need to be familiar with several disciplines including composite art, image modification, age progression, post-mortem reconstruction and demonstrative evidence. Forensic artist can earn good money right from the beginning of his career. How: Qualifications vary widely. Though some law enforcement agencies require education in legal procedures, it is more common to seek someone with formal art training. Your skill in drawing should be focused on drawing from life and demonstrate the ability to create a three dimensional drawing from the descriptive words supplied to you. The ability to translate the spoken word into an image accurately requires an innate talent that cannot be taught. People skills are incredibly important. You will be interviewing victims during a time when they are in distress or may question uncooperative witnesses reluctant to provide details. You may also be working as part of a team. This position is not for someone with a difficult artistic temperament, but rather requires patience, empathy and teamwork. For reconstructive forensics and crime scene work, a strong stomach may be needed! Where: You need to be able to draw a detailed and accurate portrait or scene from imagination. This skill is based on hours of drawing from life. For drawing of crime scenes, as a forensic artist you’ll need to be able to draw using correct perspective, accurately rendering three-dimensional objects, and using your imagination to reconstruct scenes, often with limited information but still accurately placing the information that is available. Institutions: