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CUSTOM PENCIL PORTRAITS
Hand-drawn by Tom McGlynn
Pencil Portrait Artist
As an artist specialising in custom hand-drawn pencil portraits, I bring your vision to life through fine, detailed work. Whether you’re looking to capture a loved one, a pet, or a significant memory, I focus on creating timeless pencil portraits that convey both likeness and emotion. By working from high-quality photographs, I ensure that every piece captures the essence of the subject in a way that is unique and personal.
Pencil is a versatile and expressive medium that allows me to capture intricate details and subtle emotions. Rather than heavily blending shadows, I use light, layered strokes to create depth and dimension, maintaining the natural softness of the portrait.
In each custom pencil portrait, I focus the most detail on the subject’s face, particularly the eyes, as they are often the most expressive feature. Other areas, such as clothing or background details, are kept looser and more sketch-like, ensuring that the focus remains on the person or pet being depicted.
I use high-quality fine art paper that captures the full range of tones and detail in each pencil portrait. I work with Faber-Castell pencils, using various grades to achieve smooth shading and depth, from soft shadows to crisp lines.
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Once complete, the portrait is carefully rolled and packaged in secure recycled tubes to ensure it arrives in perfect condition. The packaging makes it easy for you to transfer the artwork into a frame of your choice.
Commissioning a Custom Pencil Portrait
Commissioning a pencil portrait is easy. I’ll work closely with you throughout the process, helping you choose the right photograph and discussing any specific details you’d like included. Whether it's a head-and-shoulders portrait or a more detailed piece, I’ll ensure the final artwork meets your vision. Check out my gallery to see examples of my work, and contact me to discuss your ideas.
A custom pencil portrait is a timeless way to capture special memories, from family portraits to pets and loved ones. It makes for a unique, heartfelt gift or a beautiful addition to your home. Unlike photographs, a hand-drawn pencil portrait adds a personal touch, bringing the subject to life through the artist’s interpretation.