Karl Kopinski’s The Big Kopinski: Volume 1 Silent type

Delve into the sketches of the Magic: The Gathering artist in a hefty collection that lets the images do all the talking

There’s plenty to learn for pouring over sketches of warriors, beasts and bikers

Rarely will the review of a book clock up a higher word count than the book itself. Although it’s also unusual for an author to use their foreword to admit that words aren’t their “strong point”. Not that we feel short-changed, though…

This first volume of work by Karl Kopinski dedicates its page space to presenting hundreds of sketches, ink drawings, paintings and digital illustrations. As the book’s blurb points out, Karl isn’t satisfied with just drawing for his clients, which include the likes of Wizards of the Coast, Ubisoft and Games Workshop. No, for Karl, drawing is an obsession he’ll indulge at the slightest opportunity. And by the looks of the volume and range of quality work on display here, we’re happy to let him get on with it.

The main bulk of this collection is set aside to pencil illustrations. Printed at such a large size without any text getting in the way enables the reader to easily study Karl’s line work and technique. Balancing mark making

and shading is made to look easy, and there’s plenty to learn for pouring over page after page of sketches of warriors, fantasy beasts, futuristic bikers and Napoleonic horse riders.

And even though we don’t hear from Karl through his words, these illustrations give enough of an insight into his character. A sketch of Batman creeping around Wayne Manor by torchlight in a Bat-signal branded dressing gown and slippers tells us just as much about his sense of humour and influences than words ever could.

The odd ink illustration is included, but they’re in the minority. Meanwhile, the last 50-odd pages change gear and showcase Karl’s skills as a traditional and digital painter. Each page is dedicated to a single character, with New York gangsters standing alongside power-suited gorillas. It’s a crash course of character design inspiration and a masterclass in how to push various mediums.

Admittedly, it would’ve been nice if there were an index to archive these illustrations. And the hefty price tag is hard to justify, despite the high-calibre of work the book contains. But perhaps we all need to keep Karl’s clipped outlook in mind while enjoying these images, “I’m just trying to learn every day and have fun.”

Rating ★★★★

Karl Kopinski’s take on the Dark Knight, wandering around Wayne Manor on a dark night. The book’s high production values makes it feel you’re poring over Karl’s own sketchbook. The majority of The Big Kopinski shows off Karl’s pencil sketches, while the final 50 pages feature full-colour art.

Volume 1 features the contents of Karl’s two earlier self-published sketchbooks, along with new work.