Client: Personal & Self-Initiated Projects
Design & Illustration: Jitesh Patel
Location: London, UK
Category: Hand-Drawn Portraits & Line Art
Portrait Drawing Illustrations
OVERVIEW
Portrait illustration has always been one of my favourite ways to explore character and identity through hand-drawn line work. Whether it’s a famous face or a historical figure, I aim to capture not just a likeness, but a distinct personality — all through the simplicity and elegance of line.
MY APPROACH
Each portrait starts as a hand-drawn sketch using fine-liner pens or pencil, and is then refined digitally to achieve clean, expressive results. Line drawing might seem minimal, but it’s an incredibly powerful medium for revealing emotion, structure, and energy with just a few precise strokes.
DESIGN DETAILS
For instance, in my portrait of David Bowie, I focused on his iconic hairstyle, bone structure, and intense gaze to bring out his bold, theatrical presence. Similarly, my profile illustration of Queen Victoria uses varied line weights to add a sense of depth and gravitas, capturing both the softness and strength in her expression.
OUTCOME
These portraits go beyond visual representation — they’re designed to feel personal and timeless. Whether commissioned as a gift or developed as part of a series, each illustration tells a story, one line at a time.
