Custom Sketches and Hand-Drawn Portraits
A look at my practice, including quick sketches, work-in-progress shots, and unique custom commissions.
A self portrait sketch in my notebook with the note "Self love important". Art is a form of therapy for me, and sometimes a quick ink drawing is all I need.
Another angle of the charcoal commission from Uttar Pradesh, showing the finished piece on the drawing board.
The finished portrait for a client from Karnataka, shown on my work mat next to the pencils I used to create it.
A duplicate work in progress shot showing the early stages of a commissioned portrait.
A direct, scanned view of the pencil sketch portrait with the vibrant red tilak.
The finished pencil sketch displayed on my work surface, showing the final piece in context with some of my tools.
A digitally bordered version of the 6x6 inch graphite portrait, suitable for social media sharing.
The finished graphite portrait on my work mat, giving a sense of scale and showing the tools used.
A wider view of the Shri Ram color pencil drawing, showing the full bust portrait.
A black and white photo of the finished A4 commission, highlighting the tonal values achieved with graphite and charcoal.
About Additional Work & Sketches
These aren't just finished pieces. Some are raw work-in-progress shots where you can see the graphite layers building up, while others are quick studies I did to keep my hands moving. Whether it is a charcoal portrait or a spontaneous ink sketch, my goal is always to capture the real look of the person, not just a filtered, glossy version. If you see a style here you like, that is exactly how I can approach your custom project.
My process is open. If I am working on a commission, you will often see me focus on the eyes or hair first, because that is where the character lies. I use Brustro and Fabriano paper for durability, but I also practice on simpler sheets when I am just trying to get a feel for a new style. This gallery shows the full range of my work—from the hyper-detailed commissions I ship to Karnataka and Uttar Pradesh to the self-portraits I draw when I need to clear my head.
I believe in transparency. If a piece is a challenge, you will see it in the work-in-progress shots. I share these because I want you to know exactly what goes into your order. You aren't just buying a drawing; you are buying the hours of layering and shading that make it look real. If you have an idea that is not a standard portrait, just ask. I am always open to new concepts, even if they take me a little longer to finish.
Tarun Kumar
Hey, Tarun here. Delhi based. I treat art like a personal diary. Some days I am doing hyper-detailed charcoal commissions, and other days I am just filling pages with quick sketches to clear my head. If you want art that feels human and is made by hand, you are in the right place.
Looking for a different art style?
Search through my different art styles and custom drawing services.
More from Custom Portrait Drawings by Tarun Kumar
More services by Tarun Kumar