Nitram Charcoal

THE ANATOMY OF SMILE
From the first Nitram charcoal lines to the final layers of oil glazing—a journey of light, form and expression.
A smile is never simply a smile.
It carries emotion, memory and character.
The Anatomy of Smile
Selected for The MEAM Hall – 8th Edition
Barcelona, 2026
Artist: Arindam Gupta
Presented by Art Concept, Dubai
OilPainting PortraitArt OldMasterTechnique Sfumato Glazing FigurativeArt ContemporaryArt DubaiArt BarcelonaArt ArtConceptDubai ArtProcess

Title: The Falconer
Medium: Nitram Charcoal on Linen canvas.
Size: 25 × 36.5 cm

A study done with Nitram Charcoals in preparation for oil painting.

The Falconer is a study of the timeless relationship between a falconer and his bird, symbolizing trust, discipline, freedom, and heritage. Inspired by the rich traditions of the Arab world, the work explores the quiet dignity and deep bond shared between human and falcon. Executed entirely in Nitram Charcoal, the drawing emphasizes expressive line, tonal harmony, and classical realism.

Selected for the 162nd Small Oils Exhibition
Philadelphia Sketch Club, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA

“Why I ONLY use Nitram Charcoal.
For charcoal drawings or oil paintings, I use Nitram Charcoal for both. I always start my underdrawing with it.
It makes everything easier.
And if I mess up? Just wipe it off with your hand. Gone.
No fuss, no stress. That’s why Nitram is my go-to.”
~ Arindam Gupta

This small 25 “× “25 cm miniature is currently in progress as a charcoal drawing—an underpainting stage before moving into oils. It’s being created for a renowned European museum, and this is Part 2.
I’m building the piece carefully with charcoal, achieving strong precision and depth using Nitram charcoal, which I consistently prefer. It allows me to develop fine detailing and lifelike structure before the oil phase—something I find difficult to achieve with any other medium.

This small 25 “× “25 cm miniature is currently in progress as a charcoal drawing—an underpainting stage before moving into oils. It’s being created for a renowned European museum, and this is Part 1.
I’m building the piece carefully with charcoal, achieving strong precision and depth using Nitram charcoal, which I consistently prefer. It allows me to develop fine detailing and lifelike structure before the oil phase—something I find difficult to achieve with any other medium.