Sometimes you find those mesmerizing moments in a movie that stay with you long after the credits roll, where the chemistry between characters is so tangible you could cut it with a knife. Capturing that scene on paper, immersing oneself in the same emotion, presents a unique challenge. When working on such a piece, it’s about translating a silent, powerful connection into visual form. Two characters interact on a deeply personal level, with few words exchanged, requiring minimal facial expression to convey raw, unspoken feelings.

In my experience, drawing such intense moments becomes an emotional journey. As I draw, I try to feel the connection between the characters, almost as if I’m eavesdropping on their silent conversation. The subtleties of their emotions – a glance, a slight tilt of the head – are crucial. It’s these nuanced details that I strive to capture. This process is more than technical skill; it’s an emotional excavation, unearthing the essence of their interaction. Every stroke of the pencil becomes a conduit for the underlying tension or tenderness.

Through drawing, I explore not just the scene but my own empathy, allowing the characters' raw emotions to resonate deeply within me and hopefully, with those who view my art.

Brief Encounter
Celia Johnson, Trevor Howard

Pencil drawing
300gsm, Canson Aquarelle paper
70 x 100cm

Sundsvall
Sweden 1996