Handmade Graphite & Charcoal Portraits
I turn your favorite photos into detailed, hand-drawn portraits. No digital filters, just graphite and charcoal on high-quality paper.
A commissioned graphite and charcoal portrait where the focus was on capturing a soft, gentle expression. The use of a simple headscarf adds a timeless quality to the drawing.
This 6x6 inch graphite sketch captures a moment of pure joy. I used a cross-hatching technique for the background to create texture and make the subject's bright smile the central focus.
A classic portrait study in graphite on paper. I paid close attention to the details in the traditional earrings and the subtle expression, aiming for a realistic and elegant finish.
For this A4 commissioned piece, I used a combination of graphite and charcoal to capture the intricate floral pattern of the clothing and the soft features of the subject's face.
An expressive portrait study done with willow charcoal. The pose, with the hand partially covering the face, creates a sense of mystery and draws attention to the intensity of the eyes.
A fun and unique charcoal commission based on a selfie with a Snapchat dog filter. It shows how I can translate modern, playful photos into classic, hand-drawn art.
A quick graphite study focusing on form and texture. I was drawn to the contrast between the soft flowers in her hair and the varied patterns of her traditional blouse.
This charcoal portrait, commissioned by a client in Uttar Pradesh, showcases a clean and confident look. The dark background helps the subject stand out, emphasizing the hair and facial features.
The final version of an A4 charcoal portrait for a client from Karnataka. The pose is dynamic, and I used strong shading to give the drawing depth and a powerful presence.
A pencil sketch on Brustro drawing paper. The addition of the red tilak provides a striking pop of color on the otherwise black and white graphite portrait, drawing the eye immediately.
About Graphite & Charcoal Portraits
I create your portrait using 200 GSM professional-grade paper like Brustro or Fabriano. Before I seal the final drawing, I share work-in-progress photos with you, so you can see the layering of graphite and charcoal and verify that the likeness is just right.
Art is how I make sense of my world, so I treat every commission with the same care. When you send me a photo, I look for the details that make you, you—the texture of a beard, the light in an eye, or the way a fabric drapes.
I work primarily in A4 and A3 sizes, using a mix of graphite for fine, realistic details and willow charcoal when I need deep, high-contrast shadows. I do not use shortcuts. I hand-draw everything from the first outline to the final highlight. Once I am done, I coat the piece with a clear fixative spray. This isn't just to make it look good, but to prevent the graphite from smudging or fading over time.
Whether you want a solo portrait, a couple sketch, or a family piece, the process is personal. I keep you in the loop throughout the drawing phase. Since I am based in Delhi, I ship these portraits flat and safely packed across India. I am not a factory; sometimes I take extra time because I want the shading to be perfect, but I promise the wait is worth it for a genuine, realistic pencil drawing.
Tarun Kumar
Hey, I am Tarun. I draw because it is how I process my thoughts, and I bring that same honesty into every portrait I make. No filters, just graphite, charcoal, and a lot of patience.
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