Spawn: First Paint Pen Experiment

Took a swing at Spawn on 9x12 gray toned paper, and this was my first time using acrylic paint pens for the color.

I wanted to lean into that classic Spawn energy: huge cape shapes, deep blacks, sharp green accents, and just enough grit to keep it feeling nasty in the best possible way. The gray paper gave the piece a nice midtone to fight against, especially with the reds and whites.

Definitely learned a lot from this one. Acrylic paint pens are a different beast, but I can see why artists love them. They hit hard, dry fast, and make you commit. No sneaking around. The pen knows when you’re afraid.

Spawn is always a blast to draw because the design practically dares you to go bigger with every shape.

Would love to hear what you think, especially from anyone else who has worked with paint pens on toned paper.

Materials: 9x12 gray toned paper, ink, acrylic paint pens.