At a time when almost everything can be digitally done up to perfection, the smudges and smears by graphite can be refreshing to the eye and unapologetically human – touching viewers to the core. As a creative tool, it can also be the simplest and most affordable medium with which to express oneself and find joy.

Graphite is a stunning collection of pencil artwork by creatives around the world who have skillfully mastered the art of drawing by hand to make their mark. In a twist, the book is arranged by grading scale with works progressing from H or hardness to B or blackness and through every gradation in between. Featuring various subject matters and styles, it makes for a beautiful addition to the bookshelf and invites you to step away from your screen every now and then to, perhaps, pick up a pencil yourself and appreciate the simple things in life.