Creating this coloured pencil drawing of Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli was all about capturing a moment of intensity, focus, and quiet confidence. From the very beginning, I knew that the helmet would be the focal point of the piece—the storytelling element that draws you in before your eye begins to explore the rest of the composition.
I chose to work on toned paper to give myself a mid-value base, allowing both highlights and shadows to stand out more dramatically. This approach was especially important for the helmet, where the interplay of colour, light, and reflection is key. The vibrant blues, oranges, and greens in Antonelli’s helmet design provided the perfect opportunity to push the richness of coloured pencil, layering pigments carefully to achieve depth and luminosity. I paid particular attention to how light interacts with the curved surfaces—subtle gradients and sharp highlights help create that glossy, realistic finish that makes the helmet feel almost tangible.
The visor was another critical element. Rather than treating it as a flat reflective surface, I built it up in layers of cool blues and soft whites, allowing hints of reflection and transparency to come through. This not only adds realism but also gives a glimpse into the expression beneath.
Even though much of Antonelli’s face is obscured by the helmet, his expression still plays a vital role in the piece. The slight tilt of the head, the positioning of the hand, and the visible tension around the eyes all work together to convey focus and determination. I wanted to capture that pre-race mindset—the moment where everything narrows down to pure concentration.
In contrast to the helmet, the race suit is rendered in deeper, more controlled tones. The blacks and dark greys of the Mercedes suit serve as a visual anchor, allowing the helmet to stand out even more. Subtle teal accents and branding details were carefully added to maintain accuracy without overwhelming the composition.
This drawing is a celebration of modern Formula 1 artistry and the individuality drivers express through their helmet designs. It’s these personal touches that make each piece unique and exciting to recreate.
If you’re a fan of motorsport art or Formula 1, I’m pleased to say that prints of this Kimi Antonelli drawing are now available. You can find them in the F1 / Motorsport section of my website, where I showcase a growing collection of racing-inspired artwork.
Whether you’re looking to add to your collection or searching for a unique gift for a motorsport enthusiast, this piece is designed to bring the energy and precision of Formula 1 into your space.