Illustrations by Madison Ketcham have a unique ability to bring characters and stories to life. In this particular narrative, Ketcham skillfully illustrates the eccentricities and idiosyncrasies of Gary Kruglitz, the proprietor of Royal Palace Pools and Spas.
Through Ketcham’s illustrations, we meet Gary, a man who stands just over 6 feet tall, donning a mustache and square wire-rimmed bifocal glasses. The illustrations capture Gary’s thin short-sleeved dress shirts, revealing a glimpse of his nipple on occasion. Ketcham visually portrays Gary’s unusually high voice for a man of his size, adding a touch of whimsy and intrigue. The reader can almost imagine the Muppet-like voice as a character of its own.
As we delve deeper into the narrative, Ketcham’s illustrations bring to life the pool warehouse where Gary spends his days. The piles of product manuals, spa brochures, and colorful triplicate invoices create a visually cluttered and chaotic environment. Ketcham’s attention to detail allows us to imagine the musty smell of paper, the dusty air, and the sounds of shuffling papers as Gary navigates his workspace.
The illustrations also introduce us to the Cheryls, the mysterious women who work at Royal Palace Pools. Ketcham’s drawings bring these characters to life, showcasing their positions behind the glass cases, filled with pool accessories. The expressions on their faces hint at a deeper knowledge or understanding of the enigmatic Gary.
As the story progresses, Ketcham’s illustrations beautifully portray the frustration and desperation of the protagonist, who is trying to reach Gary. The visual representation of the phone call with Cheryl captures the tension and uncertainty of this pivotal moment. The reader can empathize with the protagonist’s urgent need to speak to Gary and understand their emotions through Ketcham’s expressive illustrations.
Throughout the article, Ketcham’s illustrations form an integral part of the story, enhancing the narrative and immersing the reader in the world of Gary and Royal Palace Pools. The attention to detail, the nuanced expressions, and the use of colors bring the characters and their surroundings to life. Madison Ketcham’s illustrations elevate the storytelling, allowing the reader to fully engage with the article and its vibrant cast of characters.