Jonny Atkinson

Since I was a young boy, pencil drawing has piqued my interest. I would consistently pick up the most recent football magazine or my favourite comic book on Saturdays and try to draw the players and super heroes I had just seen.

My enjoyment of the artistic creation process increased as the likeness of my boyhood heroes improved. I kept honing my love of art throughout high school and college, and in 2008 I received a Fine Art BA Honours from Kingston University.

I enjoy the simplicity of pencil art. Relying on the subjects’ fundamental tones and textures to capture a likeness and spirit.

I think that any good portrait should capture a likeness of the subject, and while my work does have a touch of realism, I also want it to be as true to the medium of pencil as possible.

I want the viewer to notice the distinctive marks that can only be produced by graphite on paper. I want them to notice the smudges and marks that are left behind. I see this as a description of the process, while reassuring the viewer that it is a hand-drawn work of art and not an exact replica of a photograph.

My pet portraits aim to convey a sense of warmth and joy, showcasing each subject’s unique personality to its fullest.