How to draw like a 19th century master

"While I draw inspiration from 19th-century masters such as Franklin Booth and Gustave Doré, as well as more modern artists like Bernie Wrightson, I also experiment with tools, combining my precise technical pens with expressive brush pens, and even some dry brush techniques to bring a little organic energy to the page (see our guides to the best pencils for artists and the best pens for artists)."

"Pen and ink is a demanding, often unforgiving medium. Every line counts and there's no undo button, so each mark must serve the bigger picture. That's why I emphasise planning and structure from the very beginning; sketching, studying values, and understanding how line direction can enhance form. You'll see how different textures require different tools and strokes. I'll discuss how to maintain a sense of depth, light and composition while keeping the line work alive and dynamic."

Strong composition begins with a clear, story-driven concept and careful subject choice, such as subverting expectations through scale and perspective. Pen-and-ink demands rigorous planning because every line affects form, value, and rhythm; sketching, value studies, and purposeful line direction establish structure. A range of tools—technical pens, brush pens, and dry brush—creates varied textures and organic energy. Maintaining depth, light, contrast, clarity, and pacing guides the viewer's eye and preserves narrative focus. Linework should remain alive and dynamic while supporting overall composition and storytelling.

Read at Creative Bloq