Charcoal & Chalk Sketch
Your Charcoal & Chalk Sketch
A spontaneous portrait drawn in just 20 minutes.
This expressive bust-length sketch uses charcoal and white chalk on toned paper to capture presence with minimal gesture. It’s an ideal introduction to portraiture—perfect as a keepsake, heartfelt gift, or simply to experience the quiet beauty of being drawn from life.
Each sketch is created in a single sitting, using broad strokes and delicate highlights to reflect your likeness with immediacy and honesty. Unposed and unfussy, this is a portrait that embraces imperfection and spontaneity—something rare and personal, created by hand.
Whether you’re commissioning for yourself or someone else, this sketch offers a timeless, affordable way to celebrate a moment.
Your Charcoal & Chalk Sketch Experience
From conversation to completion, a collaborative journey.
Step 1. Initial Conversation
Each portrait begins with a short consultation. Whether you're sitting in person or sharing a reference photo, Robert will take a moment to understand the subject, discuss any preferences, and ensure the tone feels right for the moment you’re marking.
Step 2. Live-Sitting or Photo Reference
Portraits can be created either from life or from a single reference image. Live sittings are relaxed and conversational—there’s no pressure to pose. If working from a photo, Robert will guide you in selecting one that carries the right feeling, gesture, or presence.
Step 3. Creating The Portrait
Robert works quickly but thoughtfully to create an expressive portrait. Each line and highlight is placed with care, aiming not for perfection, but for immediacy, rhythm, and presence.
Portrait
Charcoal & Chalk Sketch
Price range: £135.00 through £180.00
Description
A spontaneous portrait drawn in just 20 minutes.
This expressive bust-length sketch uses charcoal and white chalk on toned paper to capture presence with minimal gesture. It’s an ideal introduction to portraiture—perfect as a keepsake, heartfelt gift, or simply to experience the quiet beauty of being drawn from life.
Each sketch is created in a single sitting, using broad strokes and delicate highlights to reflect your likeness with immediacy and honesty. Unposed and unfussy, this is a portrait that embraces imperfection and spontaneity—something rare and personal, created by hand.
Whether you’re commissioning for yourself or someone else, this sketch offers a timeless, affordable way to celebrate a moment.
Additional information
| Dimensions | N/A |
|---|---|
| Size | Keepsake (Size A3), Statement (Size A2) |
| Medium | Charcoal & Chalk |
| Support | Toned Paper |
| Frame | Unframed |
Working With Robert
Your trusted Collaborator
I believe that creating a portrait should be a journey we take together. From our very first conversation, my goal is to understand what makes your subject special to you. Through a collaborative and personalised process, we work together to create a portrait that reflects your vision and brings your story to life
Through dialogue, sketches, and collaboration, we’ll ensure that every brushstroke reflects your vision. Whether we work from photographs, live sittings, or both, the process is designed to make you feel involved and confident that the final portrait will exceed your expectations.
I pride myself on making the portrait commissioning process not just effortless, but truly enjoyable. Your portrait is a reflection of both the subject and your personal connection to it.
Hear from Robert's clients
The experience of commissioning a custom portrait is unique for every client. Hear firsthand from those who have shared their stories and experiences, and see how a bespoke portrait can be transformative.
It was so much fun - he involved me at every stage, making it feel like a collaboration.
I ended up with a gorgeous painting and it had the desired effect, my sister cried with joy (and her dogs barked with alarm at their lifelike oil doppelgängers!)
I can’t recommend him enough!
Frequently Asked Questions
Did we miss something?
If you can’t find what you’re looking for, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
The drawing itself takes around 20 minutes. We’ll also allow a few minutes beforehand for a short conversation to ensure we’re aligned on tone and intention.
Not necessarily. Sketches can be drawn from life or from a single, well-chosen photograph. Live sittings offer a more personal experience, but sketches from photos still hold character and immediacy.
If working from a photo, natural light and a relaxed expression are ideal. Robert will guide you in choosing an image that has a clear gesture and presence—something that feels honest, not posed.
Charcoal & chalk sketches are designed for one person per drawing. For multiple subjects, separate sketches are recommended to preserve clarity and expression.
You’ll receive the original sketch on toned paper, unframed. It will be shipped flat or rolled, depending on your location and preferences. Framing and high-resolution digital copies are available upon request.
Yes—many clients commission these sketches as gifts. Their immediacy and intimacy make them perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or memorials. Gift vouchers are also available.
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Start Your Portrait Journey here
Share your vision—each bespoke oil portrait begins with your story. Robert accepts only a select number of commissions each year, ensuring your portrait receives thoughtful care, focus, and craftsmanship. Take this first step towards a meaningful, lasting legacy.
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