Why Coloured Pencils?

For me, coloured pencils are more than just a medium — they are a way to connect with the subjects I love, to capture the quiet details that make each creature unique. The soft curve of a horse’s mane, the delicate shimmer of a bird’s feathers, or the warmth in a beloved pet’s eyes — these are moments that demand patience, attention, and care. Coloured pencils allow me to explore these subtleties in a way that feels both intimate and precise.

What drew me to this medium was its quiet, contemplative nature. Unlike paint, which can be bold and immediate, coloured pencils invite observation. They require layering, nuance, and a rhythm that mirrors the patience of watching wildlife or studying the gentle expressions of animals I admire. Each stroke is a choice, a reflection of the connection I feel to the subject, and a step toward capturing their spirit on paper.

Using coloured pencils also shapes how I see the world. I notice textures in fur and feathers, the way light falls across a curve, the small imperfections that make each animal real and alive. In every portrait, I strive to honor that authenticity, to translate not just appearance, but essence.

I hope this reflection offers insight into why I choose to work with coloured pencils and that it provides a glimpse into the care, thought, and quiet devotion behind each piece — a reminder that art is as much about the process as it is the finished work.

Coloured pencils have taught me patience, observation, and reverence for life’s smallest details. And with every drawing, I continue to learn — not only about my subjects, but about the endless possibilities of this humble, beautiful medium.

Gwen xx