The World and Everything In It

Episode Title: ENCORE: Legal Docket Podcast | Drawing the Line
Release Date: December 14, 2024
Host/Author: WORLD Radio

Introduction: Honoring William Hennessey Jr.

In this heartfelt encore presentation, WORLD Radio pays tribute to the late William Hennessey Jr., a renowned courtroom sketch artist who passed away unexpectedly on his 67th birthday. For over four decades, Hennessey's vivid sketches brought courtroom scenes to life for media outlets where cameras are prohibited, including the prestigious Supreme Court. Hosted by legal correspondents Mary Reichard and Jenny Ruff, this episode revisits Hennessey's Virginia studio visit from September 7, 2022, offering listeners an intimate glimpse into his craft and legacy.

Hennessey's Artistic Process and Techniques

[00:45] Mary Reichard:
“Bill Hennessy is a courtroom artist. In many jurisdictions, cameras are not permitted in courtrooms. The Supreme Court, for example. So news media often rely on sketch artists like Hennessy to illustrate the courtroom proceedings.”

Hennessey employs a mixed medium of colored pencils, pastels, and watercolors to capture the essence of courtroom dynamics. His meticulous approach involves swiftly laying down base colors followed by highlights to bring out details.

[00:45] Narrator:
“Hennessy’s faithfulness to capturing courtroom moments was unparalleled, especially in environments where filming was restricted.”

Hennessey emphasizes the importance of accuracy and objectivity in his work, mirroring journalistic ethics. He meticulously observes body language, facial expressions, and interactions to ensure his sketches authentically represent the unfolding legal narratives.

Behind the Sketches: Capturing Supreme Court Justices

Hennessey's work predominantly centers around the U.S. Supreme Court, where he meticulously depicts each Justice's unique demeanor and evolving appearances.

[01:26] Bill Hennessey:
“Chief Justice John Roberts isn't an easy assignment. You know, you've gotta get it right. You're trying to capture that moment and that expression and that exchange, but you also gotta get their likeness.”
— [01:26]

From Justice Neil Gorsuch’s fluctuating use of glasses to Justice Amy Coney Barrett’s distinctive head tilt, Hennessey pays close attention to the minutiae that define each Justice. For instance, he notes the transformation in Justice Elena Kagan’s hairstyle over the years:

[02:40] Bill Hennessey:
“I think her hair has changed. Yeah, I think she's changed her look a bit.”
— [02:40]

His sketches reveal not just physical appearances but also the evolving interactions and expressions that convey the Justices' engagement with legal arguments.

Anecdotes and Memorable Moments

Hennessey's tenure as a courtroom artist is filled with poignant and noteworthy experiences:

• Monica Lewinsky Saga:
  [11:37] Bill Hennessey:
  “She stood at the elevator doors. As soon as the elevator doors opened, she stuck her tongue out and jumped on the elevator. And I was like, I dropped that. So I had. Yeah, I was too good not to draw.”
  — [11:37]
  Hennessey swiftly captured Monica Lewinsky's playful gesture, illustrating his ability to seize fleeting, expressive moments.

• Peter Navarro’s Contempt Charge:
  [12:34] Bill Hennessey:
  “He had been locked up. I didn't realize that. And that was a real shocker.”
  — [12:34]
  Witnessing Peter Navarro’s arrest, Hennessey drew the poignant moment of Navarro receiving his belongings, highlighting the emotional weight of legal proceedings.

• Chief Justice John Roberts’ Antitrust Case:
  [18:15] Bill Hennessey:
  “They were all peppering the government attorney, who was John Roberts, with, you know, why did the judge do this? Why did he? And finally he sort of threw his hands up and said, I don't know. I wish we knew. And I thought, that's my drawing.”
  — [18:15]
  Years later, this very sketch resonated when Hennessey shared the story with Roberts, who recalled the moment, underscoring the lasting impact of his work.

Philosophy and Ethical Commitment

Hennessey's dedication to objectivity is a cornerstone of his artistry:

[12:54] Mary Reichard:
“Another one of his goals, be objective.”
— [12:54]

[12:57] Bill Hennessey:
“I try to stay out of the politics of it. I really do. And even including in the way I draw and what I draw, I just try to be objective. You know, that's my goal.”
— [12:57]

He insists on accurately portraying what he observes without embellishment or personal bias, adhering to the ethical standards similar to those in journalism.

[13:09] Mary Reichard:
“Draw it as he sees it.”
— [13:09]

Hennessey’s approach ensures that his sketches serve as authentic visual records of legal proceedings, providing invaluable perspectives for audiences unable to attend in person.

Challenges in the Digital Age

The rise of digital media has posed significant challenges for courtroom artists like Hennessey:

[21:18] Mary Reichard:
“Hennessey says it's even harder today. We are in the digital age.”
— [21:18]

[21:22] Bill Hennessey:
“People want to see photographs, they want to see video. Even they'd rather see video than photographs. They want the moving image.”
— [21:22]

With the preference shifting towards video content and the economic strains from online free content, Hennessey grapples with maintaining his craft. Budget cuts in media and the inundation of digital imagery have made traditional sketch artistry a tougher profession to sustain.

Legacy and Preservation of Courtroom Art

Hennessey expresses a profound hope for the preservation of courtroom sketch artistry:

[21:55] Mary Reichard:
“Hennessy hopes his form of art will be preserved. We do, too.”
— [21:55]

His extensive collection of approximately 10,000 sketches serves as a historical archive, capturing pivotal moments and personalities within the judiciary. Hennessey believes that his work not only documents legal proceedings but also educates the public about the complexities and emotional depth inherent in the legal system.

[19:43] Bill Hennessey:
“I really tell people, you know, if you really question it, if you think it's unfair, go in a courtroom and watch how this system is really there to protect the rights of the individual.”
— [19:43]

Through his sketches, Hennessey fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of the American judicial system, emphasizing its role in upholding individual rights and federalism.

Personal Reflections and Life Lessons

Hennessey’s experiences transcend his artistic endeavors, offering broader insights:

[14:53] Bill Hennessey:
“It's almost amazing. If you try this, you know, set your pen or pencil down at one point on what you're looking at, and don't even look up. Let your eye guide your. Now, your proportion will be thrown off, but you'll be amazed at how much of the character of what you actually are looking at, you've captured.”
— [14:53]

This technique underscores a life lesson about focusing on the subject rather than oneself, a principle applicable beyond art. Hennessey's ability to capture emotion and character by immersing himself in the moment reflects a profound connection to his subjects, enhancing the authenticity of his work.

Conclusion: A Lasting Impact

William Hennessey Jr.'s dedication as a courtroom artist left an indelible mark on legal journalism. His ability to vividly portray the human elements within the austere walls of the courtroom provided audiences with a deeper, more nuanced understanding of legal proceedings. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, Hennessey's legacy serves as a testament to the enduring power of traditional artistry in documenting and interpreting pivotal moments in history.

Notable Quotes:

• Bill Hennessey on Objectivity:
  “I try to stay out of the politics of it. I really do. And even including in the way I draw and what I draw, I just try to be objective.”
  — [12:57]

• Mary Reichard on Drawing Philosophy:
  “Draw it as he sees it.”
  — [13:09]

• Bill Hennessey on the Judicial System:
  “I really tell people, you know, if you really question it, if you think it's unfair, go in a courtroom and watch how this system is really there to protect the rights of the individual.”
  — [19:43]

• Hennessey’s Artistic Technique Advice:
  “It's almost amazing. If you try this, you know, set your pen or pencil down at one point on what you're looking at, and don't even look up.”
  — [14:53]

This summary encapsulates William Hennessey Jr.'s invaluable contributions as a courtroom artist, highlighting his techniques, memorable experiences, ethical commitment, and the legacy he leaves behind. Through his eyes and sketches, listeners gain a richer appreciation of the intricate dance between law, emotion, and artistry within the judiciary.