Sharp Lines, Familiar Faces: Hyperrealistic Drawings by Fabio Gonçalves

Fabio Gonçalves de Arruda, an artist based in São Paulo, Brazil, has a serious talent for turning graphite into something almost photographic. His black and white pencil drawings are so sharply detailed that at first glance, it’s easy to mistake them for high-contrast portraits or film stills. Working in a hyperrealistic style, he brings a wide range of subjects to life, from Morgan Freeman’s expressive gaze to a dramatic moment lifted straight from Stanley Kubrick’s The Shining.

Fabio is a master at balancing precision with mood. His drawings go beyond technical skill, they have a real sense of presence and atmosphere. He clearly draws from a wide set of influences, merging classical techniques with pop culture references that feel familiar but are rendered in a completely fresh way. From Nelson Mandela’s quiet intensity to Ayrton Senna’s focused stare before a race, each portrait he creates captures more than just likeness, it captures character.

You can explore Fabio’s work on his website and online shop or follow him on Instagram, where he regularly shares new drawings and behind-the-scenes peeks.

More illustrations via Instagram