One of my friends (Evgeny Zhelev) writes a picture by pencil. He is self-taught. Of course, he is very proud of his work.
And even found a job in accordance with his hobby, the designer of children's clothing. Although some of his work hard to call childish.
These drawings are incredible! How long did the illustrations take your friend?
It depends on period when he drew. Last pictures took a couple of month. First his works took more.
We run an art sharing initiative here on steemit, would love to see some future illustrations