I’m Kris Stokes, a graphite artist based in Belper, Derbyshire, and I love using just a simple pencil to create the characters that appear as I draw.

I work exclusively in graphite because I love the discipline and detail it allows. There is something about working in black and white that encourages me to slow down and really look at light and shadow, texture, expression and all the small details that can give a character a sense of life.

But the finished drawing is never really just about the technique. For me, it is about the character that emerges and the little spark of curiosity that I hope it creates in someone looking at the work.

I don’t always want to tell the viewer exactly what the story is. I’d rather give them enough to start imagining one of their own.

A LITTLE ABOUT ME

I was born in Derby and began my creative career as a graphic designer, later working as an art director in London. Design taught me a great deal about composition, visual clarity, balance and the importance of knowing when to leave space — things that still influence how I approach my drawings today.

After stepping away from the design industry, I spent several years working outside the creative field before finding my way back to art. Returning to drawing gave me the opportunity to develop a style that felt entirely my own, and I gradually became drawn to the possibilities of graphite.

I’m now building my work as a professional artist and a selling artist, exhibiting through open calls and galleries and continuing to develop a growing body of graphite drawings.

EXHIBITIONS & RECOGNITION

My work has been selected for several open exhibitions in Derbyshire, including exhibitions at The Old Lock Up Gallery in Cromford.

2025
Halcyon Open Call — The Old Lock Up Gallery, Cromford
Solstice Open Call — The Old Lock Up Gallery, Cromford

2026
Open 26 — The Old Lock Up Gallery, Cromford
Feast Open Call — The Old Lock Up Gallery, Cromford
Karma Muta Open Call — The Old Lock Up Gallery, Cromford
Derbyshire Makers Open Exhibition — First Prize Winner

I’m continuing to develop my portfolio, take part in exhibitions and open calls, and create new characters and stories in graphite.