Using just pencil and paper, London-based artist and musician Burch Scribbles creates art so detailed they appear to have a photographic quality to them. Scribbles’ artwork convey a sense of realism so mind boggling they will cause you to take a second look. Scribbles recently released a time lapse video where he drew a hyperrealistic picture of hip hop entertainer Jay Z. Commenting on the making of the video. Scribbles said:

To do photorealism, you need to break the original image down into a grid, then use that grid on your paper. This enables you to concentrate on the fine details.

Burch Scribbles took time to answer some questions about his work in this exclusive interview with Netloid Arts.

How did you get into art, how long of you been drawing and what was your prime motivation if you have any?

I can’t remember how I got into art, I’ve been drawing since I was three years old, It’s always been something I do.

What is your workspace like, what tools and materials do you use?

I have a large desk with an A1 drawing board, a GoPro set up for recording time lapse videos as I draw, an electric pencil sharpener, a very big storage box for pencils and some photography daylights for drawing in the evenings. I also have a footrest and a good quality chair, which are essential for posture during hours of work.

I mostly use Faber Castell Polychromos coloured pencils, but recently I have been enjoying using Caran D’ache Luminance pencils too. The Luminance are soft and blendable, and can be used in a painterly manner. The Polychromos are fantastic for fine layering and building translucent textures as well as fine detail. One piece of equipment I could not do without is my Jakar electric eraser. A perfect tool for erasing fine details in areas like hair and pores.

What do you want to achieve with your work? How do you want people to perceive or enjoy your work.

I want people to be amazed by detail and realism. Visual stimulation is my goal. Time lapse videos add another dimension to the experience, with the act of making art becoming part of the sensation. I want my art to be enjoyed without a statement of intent or explanation. Most importantly I want my work to be accessible to anyone.

Do you have any advice for aspiring artists/illustrators?

I guess this could apply to anyone – pursue what you’re good at. As an artist, use the medium you enjoy the most, and explore the subject you love the most. Don’t force yourself to do something that you can’t engage with easily. Don’t work a certain way because other people tell you to. Don’t set boundaries for yourself. There are no rules. Keep all of this in mind and you’ll be surprised how far you can get.

Anything else you’d like everyone to know about?

I have a YouTube channel and a Facebook page. I will be uploading a new time lapse video in the next few weeks – Subscribe and Like to get updated as soon as it arrives!

This is part of a series of Netloid Art interviews where we talk to talented artist and musicians, if you would like to be featured, please drop me a line here.

Checkout more pictures of Burch Scribbles’ work below: