Emily Fossum

A woman with long red hair smiles while holding two sketchpads, one with a pencil drawing of a cat and the other with a pencil drawing of a dog, in front of pink curtains.

Hi, I’m Emily Fossum.

I’ve loved drawing for as long as I can remember. What started as a childhood passion grew into a career as a portrait artist, but at its heart, drawing is still simply one of my favorite things to do. Today I specialize in charcoal and pencil portraits of people and pets, while continuing to challenge myself to grow in other mediums and subjects.

As a military spouse and mother of two, life has taken me to places I never expected. Along the way, I’ve had opportunities to study great works of art, learn from other artists, and find inspiration in new places. Through every move and every season of life, art has remained a constant companion. Some days that means hours working in the studio, while other days it means making a quick sketch on the go. I get joy out of sharing that love of art with others, whether its encouraging other busy moms, cheering on my own kids’ artistic interests or sharing drawing tips with young artists who stop to watch me sketch!

For years, General’s® charcoal pencils have been among my most trusted drawing tools. I love the control and precision they offer, the beautiful range of values they create, and the way gray toned paper allows both lights and darks to shine. When General’s® invited me to help create this special selection, I chose the materials I reach for again and again—the same supplies I carry with me wherever I go.

More than anything, I hope this kit helps make drawing feel approachable. Whether you’re picking up a pencil for the first time or returning to a hobby you’ve neglected for years, I hope these lessons encourage you to slow down, observe closely, and enjoy the process of creating. Drawing has brought so much joy to my life, and it is my hope that it brings the same to yours.

So love your pencils. Keep them nearby. Take them with you. Draw the people, pets, and places you love. You may be surprised where a sketchbook and a few pencils can take you!

To see more of Emily’s artwork, tutorials, and commissioned portraits, visit EmilyFossumArt.com or follow along on Instagram @EmilyFossumArt