The process always starts with a rough pencil sketch. I lean heavily on reference images to capture the right proportions, essence, and details of the cute little critter. For this Tasmanian devil, I pored over photos to make sure its snout and piercing gaze felt just right. It’s all about bringing the animal to life in the most authentic way while adding my own artistic spin. Each pencil stroke builds toward that goal, laying the foundation for the final piece.
The original pencil sketches, like this one, are unique 1/1 originals. They hold the raw energy of creation—the first step before the digital world takes over. These are available for collectors who want to own the initial spark of an artwork’s journey. #TasmanianDevil #PencilSketch #KidsBook
Framed Tasmanian Devil Pencil Sketch $100 AUD (Not including postage)
Original 1/1 artwork comes with a certificate of authenticity
Black Frame 6 x 6 Inches or 152 x 152 millimeters
Art 5 x 5 Inches or 127 x 127 millimeters
After completing the sketch, I transition to the digital phase, using Procreate on my iPad. This is where I bring the art into full color and context, especially for my kids’ book illustrations. Procreate allows me to experiment, refine, and add the layers of detail and vibrancy that transform the raw pencil sketch into polished illustrations and layouts. It’s a tool that bridges the gap between traditional and modern artistry, giving me the freedom to create and adapt with precision.
For my kids’ books, each character and illustration tells a story, and it all stems from those simple beginnings with a pencil and paper. The Tasmanian devil head is just one example of how my process brings together traditional sketching techniques and digital illustration to create art that resonates.
Kids Book Illustrator Andy C Marshall 