Custom Charcoal and Pencil Portraits
I turn your favorite photographs into timeless, hand-drawn portraits. Whether it is a gift for a loved one or a special piece for your home, I use charcoal and graphite to capture the emotions that cameras sometimes miss.
A free-hand pencil sketch of Jawaharlal Nehru, created by my student Rishav. It's a great example of capturing a likeness and expression through careful shading.
A commissioned charcoal portrait of a young child. I focused on the soft features and innocent expression to create a treasured memory for the family.
This charcoal portrait of a woman with a lotus in her hair is a study in human anatomy and expression. The use of light and shadow on toned paper brings a classic, gentle feel to the piece.
A student's portrait study of Rabindranath Tagore in charcoal. The focus here was on capturing the texture of the hair and beard, as well as the intensity in his eyes.
An oil painting replica of a classic Raja Ravi Varma piece, done by one of my software engineering students. It shows how anyone with a passion for art can learn classical techniques.
A custom family portrait created from separate photos, bringing four family members together in one beautiful charcoal drawing. This is a wonderful way to create a complete family picture.
This pen and ink sketch of a Rajasthani woman shows how much story can be told with just lines. The details in her jewelry and the lines on her face speak of a rich life and culture.
About this collection
Before I pick up the charcoal, we will look at your reference photo together to check the lighting and angles. Once I start sketching, I share progress photos with you, so we can make sure the expression is just right before I set everything with my anti-smudge fixative spray.
Capturing the Moment
I believe a photograph captures a moment, but a portrait captures the feeling behind it. My process is a partnership. We start by discussing the photos you love—whether it is a child’s candid smile or a grandparent’s expression—and talk about the vibe you want for the final piece.
The Materials
I use professional-grade charcoal and graphite pencils because they allow for the depth and contrast that make a face stand out. Every sketch is done on 160+ GSM acid-free artistic sketching paper, which is archival quality and helps keep the art looking crisp for years.
The Process
Since these are handmade, I do not just finish and ship. I share progress snapshots with you along the way. This ensures that the likeness and the emotion are exactly what you envisioned. Once the sketch is complete, I finish it with a clear, protective fixative spray. This prevents the graphite from yellowing or rubbing off, so your portrait stays protected.
Practical Details
- Timeline: I typically need 5-7 days to complete a piece, depending on the complexity of the details.
- Delivery: Your portrait arrives either rolled in a protective safety tube or flat-packed with stiffeners, ensuring it stays safe during transit.
- Customization: My standard format is an A3 (approx. 12 x 16 inches) sketch of 1-2 faces. If you have a specific request or an idea for a group portrait, let me know.
Art is not about perfection for me—it is about authenticity. If you have an old photo you would love to see brought to life on paper, send it over and let's talk.
Shikha Goel
I’m Shikha, and for me, art is just a way to make life a little more peaceful and a lot more fun. Whether I’m painting with kids or sketching a portrait for a client, I love helping people bring their ideas to life. Let’s sit down and create something beautiful together.
Looking for a different art style?
You can explore my other collections or search for specific types of art and classes.
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