Batman sketch card. Comic book illustration of Batman in a superhero pose, with clenched fists, wearing his signature gray suit with black bat symbol, blue cape, cowl, gloves, and a yellow utility belt, with a fiery background.

Sketch Card Commissions

Whilst the official Batman: The Legend sketch cards form the heart of this collection, another equally rewarding aspect has been the opportunity to collaborate directly with talented artists from around the world.

Rather than simply acquiring existing artwork, these commissions begin with a conversation. Ideas, characters, compositions and artistic styles are discussed before each artist interprets the concept in their own unique way. The intention has never been to dictate the artwork, but to provide inspiration whilst allowing the artist complete creative freedom to produce something original.

Each commissioned piece is a genuine one-of-one artwork, created specifically for this collection. Many are accompanied by concept sketches, work-in-progress images or videos documenting the creative process, providing a fascinating insight into how each piece evolved from an initial idea into the finished artwork.

These commissions celebrate not only the enduring appeal of Batman and his remarkable cast of characters, but also the extraordinary skill, imagination and individuality of the artists themselves. They have transformed this collection from an archive of cards into an ongoing collaboration with some of the most talented illustrators working in the sketch card community today.

As new artists are discovered and fresh ideas emerge, this section of the collection will continue to grow, making it one of the most enjoyable and personal aspects of the entire project.

Javier Gonzalez

Title: Batman vs Bane

Artist: Javier Gonzalez (Blackhilt Studio)
Year: 2026
Medium: Original Hand-Drawn Commission Sketch Card
Supporting Material: Original Development Sketch / Process Artwork Included

Description

This striking original commission by Javier Gonzalez captures one of the most iconic confrontations in Batman history: the eternal battle between Batman's indomitable will and Bane's overwhelming physical power.

The composition depicts a moment of intense conflict, with Bane gripping Batman by the throat as the two adversaries stare each other down at point-blank range. The artist deliberately compresses the scene into an intimate, almost claustrophobic space, forcing the viewer directly into the confrontation.

Batman's glowing eyes and defiant expression communicate determination and resistance, while Bane's venom-enhanced physique dominates the frame. The toxic green vapour escaping from Bane's mask introduces a vivid contrast against the cool blues of Gotham City in the background, creating a dramatic colour balance that immediately draws the eye.

The finished artwork is accompanied by an original development sketch showing Javier's construction lines, layout planning and initial colour studies. This additional material provides a fascinating insight into the creative process behind the commission and significantly enhances its archival importance.

Creation Process

One of the most compelling aspects of this commission is the inclusion of the original development artwork.

For collectors, the existence of process material creates a documented artistic journey from concept to finished piece, adding both historical and collector significance.

Collector's Notes

Bane remains one of the few villains capable of matching Batman intellectually while simultaneously surpassing him physically. The relationship between the two characters has defined some of the most memorable stories in Batman history.

Rather than depicting a large-scale action sequence, Javier focuses on the psychological aspect of the conflict. Batman is visibly overpowered, yet refuses to submit. The result is a composition that captures not simply a fight, but the fundamental contrast between the two characters: determination versus dominance.

This artwork forms part of a bespoke series of commissioned Batman works created specifically for the Martin Nealon Collection.

Curator's Comment

This commission demonstrates Javier Gonzalez's ability to tell a complete story within an extremely limited format. The artwork succeeds because it focuses on emotion rather than spectacle. Batman's determination, Bane's dominance and the tension between the two characters are immediately apparent.

The accompanying development sketch elevates the piece further, transforming it from a standalone artwork into a documented creative process. Together, the sketch and finished painting form a complete artistic record and make this one of the most significant Javier Gonzalez commissions within the collection.

Batman sketch card by Javier. A colourful street art painting depicting Batman and the Joker in a confrontational pose, with Batman on the left and Bane on the right, set against a cityscape background.
Batman sketch card by Javier. Line drawing of two humanoid figures, one wearing a beanie and gloves, with a cybernetic face, and the other with long hair, in an intimate pose, with a colourful watercolour background.

Javier Gonzalez

Title: Harley Quinn – Queen of Chaos
Artist: Javier Gonzalez (Blackhilt Studio)
Year: 2026
Medium: Original Hand-Drawn Commission Sketch Card
Supporting Material: Original Development Sketch / Process Artwork Included

Description

This vibrant and explosive original commission by Javier Gonzalez captures Harley Quinn at the height of her chaotic and unpredictable nature.

Positioned at the centre of a scene filled with fire, smoke, flying shell casings and fragmentation grenades, Harley dominates the composition with an expression that perfectly conveys her manic energy and fearless personality. The artwork combines action, humour and danger in equal measure, creating a piece that feels alive with movement.

Javier's use of colour is particularly striking. The warm oranges and yellows of the explosions contrast beautifully with Harley's signature red, black, pink and blue palette. The result is a visually dramatic image that immediately commands attention while remaining unmistakably Harley Quinn.

Creation Process

This commission is accompanied by an original development sketch documenting the early stages of the artwork's creation.

The preliminary drawing reveals the precision with which Javier constructs his compositions. The grid system, layout lines and initial character rendering demonstrate the careful planning that underpins the finished piece. Particularly interesting is the fact that Harley's facial expression and pose were largely established from the outset, illustrating how strongly the concept was conceived before the colouring and background effects were added.

For collectors, the inclusion of process artwork significantly enhances the archival importance of the commission by preserving part of the creative journey behind the finished piece.

Collector's Notes

Harley Quinn has become one of DC Comics' most popular modern characters, evolving from her animated origins into one of the most recognisable figures in popular culture.

This commission successfully captures the essence of Harley's character: unpredictable, dangerous, playful and completely fearless. Rather than portraying her as a simple villain, Javier presents Harley as a force of nature, surrounded by destruction yet appearing entirely at home within the chaos.

The artwork forms part of a bespoke series of Batman-related commissions created specifically for the Martin Nealon Collection.

Curator's Comment

This commission perfectly demonstrates Javier Gonzalez's ability to combine strong characterisation with dramatic visual storytelling. While the finished artwork is undeniably impressive, the accompanying development sketch elevates the piece further by providing a rare insight into the artist's working process.

The transformation from the carefully constructed pencil layout to the fully realised explosion of colour highlights Javier's technical skill and creative vision. Together, the sketch and final artwork form a complete artistic record that is both visually striking and historically significant within the collection.

Among the Harley Quinn pieces in the collection, this stands as one of the most energetic and visually impactful examples, successfully capturing both the character's personality and the artist's distinctive style.

Harley Quinn sketch card by Javier. Comic-style illustration of a fierce woman with colorful hair, dressed in revealing superhero costume, holding a gun, surrounded by explosions and dynamite, with a determined expression.
Harley Quinn sketch card by Javier. A sketch of a female character with long hair, wearing a costume with a collar and a belt, standing in a dynamic pose with her mouth open, one arm raised and the other at her side,

Javier Gonzalez

Title: Mr. Freeze – Heart of Ice
Artist: Javier Gonzalez (Blackhilt Studio)
Year: 2026
Medium: Original Hand-Drawn Commission Sketch Card

Description

This exceptional original commission by Javier Gonzalez depicts one of Batman's most tragic and visually distinctive adversaries, Mr. Freeze

Rendered in Javier's highly detailed illustrative style, the artwork presents Freeze standing against the Gotham skyline, his iconic cryogenic weapon raised and ready to unleash a devastating blast of absolute zero. The artist has masterfully employed a restrained palette of icy blues, silvers and blacks to reinforce the character's cold, detached nature, whilst the glowing red eyes create a striking focal point and inject a sense of menace into the composition.

Particularly noteworthy is the inclusion of Nora Fries, suspended within her cryogenic chamber in the background. This subtle yet powerful detail elevates the artwork beyond a simple villain portrait, reminding the viewer of the tragic motivation that lies at the heart of the character. Freeze is not portrayed as a conventional criminal, but as a brilliant scientist driven by grief, obsession and the desperate hope of saving the woman he loves.

Creation Process

The commission is accompanied by preliminary construction sketches supplied by the artist, documenting the development of the piece from initial pencil layout through to the finished colour artwork.

These preparatory studies provide valuable insight into Javier's creative process and significantly enhance the archival and historical value of the commission.

For collectors, the inclusion of original development sketches creates a complete artistic record and demonstrates the considerable skill involved in transforming a simple concept into a fully realised artwork.

Collector's Notes

This piece was commissioned specifically to celebrate one of the most sympathetic and emotionally complex characters within Batman's rogues gallery.

Unlike many depictions of Mr. Freeze that focus solely on technology and spectacle, Javier has chosen to emphasise the character's humanity. The frozen cityscape, Nora's cryogenic chamber and Freeze's solemn expression combine to create a work that captures both the science-fiction and tragic-romantic aspects of the character.

The commission forms part of an ongoing series of bespoke Batman-related artworks created for the Martin Nealon Collection, with a particular focus on iconic villains and defining moments from Batman mythology.

Curator's Comment

Among the Javier Gonzalez commissions within the collection, this is arguably one of the most complete narrative pieces. The artwork successfully balances technical excellence, atmosphere and storytelling while remaining instantly recognisable as Mr. Freeze. The inclusion of Nora transforms the image from a character portrait into a story. Combined with the accompanying pencil development sketches, the commission represents not only a finished artwork but a documented creative journey. It is a piece that rewards repeated viewing and stands as an outstanding interpretation of one of Batman's most tragic adversaries.

Batman, Mr Freeze sketch by Javier. A drawing of a villainous character with a clown-like face, wearing a dark cloak, holding a weapon, and standing in front of a cityscape with tall buildings and a glowing blue background.
Mr. Freeze, Batman sketch card. A sci-fi character with glowing red eyes, bald head, and armor, holding a futuristic weapon in front of a city skyline with tall buildings and a large glowing dome in the background.
Mr. Freeze, Batman sketch card. A pencil sketch of a man in a futuristic outfit holding a large weapon, with a cape and high-tech details.
Mr. Freeze, Batman sketch card. A mural of a menacing, skeletal figure with glowing red eyes, wearing a dark cloak and wielding a large weapon, with a cityscape and cosmic background.

Javier Gonzalez

Title: Batman – Guardian of a Burning Gotham
Artist: Javier Gonzalez (Blackhilt Studio)
Year: 2026
Medium: Original Hand-Drawn Commission Sketch Card

Description

This striking original commission by Javier Gonzalez depicts Batman standing amidst a city seemingly engulfed by chaos and destruction. Against a backdrop of towering Gotham skyscrapers, swirling smoke and embers illuminate the scene while bats emerge from the darkness overhead, reinforcing the mythology of the Dark Knight.

Unlike many action-driven Batman compositions, this artwork relies on atmosphere and presence rather than movement. Batman stands motionless, head lowered in contemplation, appearing less like a superhero and more like a weary guardian burdened by the responsibility of protecting Gotham.

The composition demonstrates Javier's ability to balance dramatic lighting with subtle storytelling. Cool blues and metallic greys dominate Batman's armour, while the warm orange glow of fires and destruction creates a powerful contrast that draws the viewer's eye throughout the card.

Collector's Notes

This piece represents one of the most mature and atmospheric Batman commissions within the Martin Nealon Collection.

The artwork captures a side of Batman rarely explored in sketch card format. Rather than focusing on combat or intimidation, Javier presents Batman as Gotham's eternal protector, standing resolute while the city burns around him.

The inclusion of the bats circling overhead transforms the image into something symbolic. Batman is not merely a man in a costume here; he becomes part of Gotham itself—a creature of the city, watching over it through its darkest moments.

Artistic Highlights

  • Exceptional use of warm and cool colour contrasts.

  • Strong cinematic storytelling despite a relatively simple composition.

  • Excellent armour rendering and reflective surfaces.

  • Atmospheric Gotham skyline creating depth and scale.

  • Symbolic use of bats reinforcing Batman's mythology.

  • Highly detailed mixed-media finish with strong tonal control.

Comparative Value Within the Collection

Among the Javier Gonzalez commissions currently documented, this would rank among the strongest Batman pieces due to:

  • Full painted background.

  • Strong narrative content.

  • Exceptional atmosphere.

  • Highly collectible character.

  • Broad appeal to both Batman and original art collectors.

Curator's Comment

What elevates this artwork above many Batman sketch cards is its restraint. Javier avoids excessive action or spectacle and instead creates a moment of reflection. For that reason, this commission is not simply a portrait of Batman—it is a portrait of duty, sacrifice and unwavering resolve.

Batman sketch card by Javier. Painting of Batman with a serious expression in a cityscape background with flying bats and burning buildings.
Batman sketch card. Black and white illustration of Batman with a stern expression, posed in a cityscape background with flying bats.

Javier Gonzalez

Title: Harley Quinn – The Siren of Chaos
Artist: Javier Gonzalez (Blackhilt Studio)
Year: 2026
Medium: Original Hand-Drawn Commission Sketch Card

Description

This remarkable original commission by Javier Gonzalez presents a highly realistic interpretation of Harley Quinn, inspired by the modern cinematic portrayal of the character.  (Margot Robbie Interpretation)

Unlike many depictions that focus on Harley's manic energy and theatrical costume design, Javier has chosen to concentrate on character, expression and realism. The result is a sophisticated portrait that captures both Harley's beauty and the underlying unpredictability that makes her such a compelling figure within the Batman universe.

The composition is deliberately intimate, with the character filling almost the entire frame. This approach directs the viewer's attention toward the subtle details of the face, eyes and expression. The slightly detached gaze creates an intriguing ambiguity, suggesting a moment of reflection beneath the character's notorious chaotic exterior.

The colour palette is beautifully balanced. The warm blonde tones are contrasted by the signature red and blue highlights flowing through the hair, immediately identifying the character whilst creating a visually striking composition. The use of light across the skin and hair demonstrates Javier's considerable skill as a portrait artist and elevates the piece beyond a conventional comic-book interpretation.

Collector's Notes

This commission forms part of an ongoing series of bespoke Batman-related artworks created specifically for the Martin Nealon Collection.

Curator's Comment

Among the Javier Gonzalez Harley Quinn commissions, this is arguably the most sophisticated portrait study. The artwork succeeds because it relies on subtlety rather than spectacle. Every element of the composition is designed to focus attention on the character herself, allowing the quality of the portraiture to take centre stage.

The rendering of the eyes, skin tones and hair demonstrates a level of realism rarely achieved on such a small format. Combined with the restrained composition and cinematic lighting, the result is a piece that feels closer to fine art portraiture than traditional sketch-card artwork.

This commission represents an important aspect of the collection, showcasing Javier's versatility as an artist and his ability to move seamlessly between action-driven comic imagery and highly refined character portraiture.

Harley Quinn sketch card. Colorful portrait of a woman with long, multicolored hair, dark eye makeup, and a choker that says "WORDA"; her lips are red, and she has a heart-shaped tattoo near her eye.
Blacklit Studios, hand-painted original art, includes email blacklitstudios@gmail.com, signature and date January 2026.

Javier Gonzalez

Title: The Joker – The Killing Smile
Artist: Javier Gonzalez (Blackhilt Studio)
Year: 2026
Medium: Original Hand-Drawn Commission Sketch Card

Description

This outstanding original commission by Javier Gonzalez presents one of the most chilling and psychologically compelling interpretations of The Joker within the collection.

Rather than depicting the Clown Prince of Crime amidst violence or chaos, Javier focuses entirely on the character's most dangerous weapon—his personality. The close-up portrait places the viewer directly in the presence of the Joker, forcing an uncomfortable confrontation with his unsettling smile and penetrating gaze.

The artwork draws clear inspiration from the modern cinematic interpretation of the character whilst retaining Javier's own artistic identity. The expression is particularly effective; the Joker appears calm, confident and entirely in control, creating a far more sinister image than a conventional action scene.

Creation Context

This commission forms part of a bespoke series of Batman-related artworks commissioned directly from Javier Gonzalez for the Martin Nealon Collection.

The objective of the commission was to allow the artist creative freedom to reinterpret iconic Batman characters through his own artistic style whilst maintaining their instantly recognisable identity.

The result is a portrait that feels both familiar and unique—a Joker that pays homage to previous interpretations while remaining unmistakably a Javier Gonzalez original.

Collector's Notes

The Joker remains Batman's greatest adversary and one of the most recognisable villains in popular culture. Unlike many villains whose threat comes from physical power, the Joker's menace stems from unpredictability, intelligence and psychological manipulation.

This artwork captures those qualities perfectly. The slight smile, direct eye contact and understated confidence create a portrait that is far more unsettling than overt aggression. It is a piece that rewards prolonged viewing, revealing new subtleties in expression and character with each examination.

Historical Context

The Joker first appeared in Batman #1 and has since become one of the most influential villains in comic book history.

Curator's Comment

Among the Javier Gonzalez commissions within the collection, this is arguably one of the strongest pure character portraits. It demonstrates the artist's ability to convey emotion, personality and narrative without relying on action or elaborate backgrounds.

The success of the piece lies in its restraint. Every element of the composition serves to focus attention on the Joker's expression, allowing the viewer to experience the unsettling charisma that makes the character so enduring.

Joker, Batman sketch card. Colorful portrait of a man dressed as the Joker, with green hair, white face makeup, black eyeshadow, exaggerated red lipstick, and a purple jacket with a yellow tie.
Blacklit Studios logo with handwritten signature and contact email

Javier Gonzalez

Title: Batman – Guardian of Gotham
Artist: Javier Gonzalez (Blackhilt Studio)
Year: 2026
Medium: Original Hand-Drawn Commission Sketch Card
Collection: Private Collection – Martin Nealon

Description

This superb original commission by Javier Gonzalez presents Batman in one of his most iconic and enduring roles: the silent guardian watching over Gotham City.

Standing atop a gargoyle high above the city streets, Batman surveys the skyline beneath a luminous full moon. The composition immediately evokes the classic imagery that has defined the Dark Knight for generations, combining gothic architecture, dramatic lighting and heroic presence into a single powerful scene.

Javier's interpretation embraces the timeless comic-book version of Batman, featuring the classic blue-grey costume, flowing cape and yellow oval bat symbol. The choice of costume gives the artwork a nostalgic quality reminiscent of the Bronze Age and early modern comic eras while remaining contemporary in its execution.

The gargoyle beneath Batman adds both symbolism and atmosphere. It reinforces the character's role as Gotham's protector while creating a visual connection between Batman and the city he has sworn to defend.

Collector's Notes

This commission represents a departure from the more action-orientated pieces within the collection. Rather than focusing on combat or confrontation, the artwork celebrates Batman as a symbol.

The composition emphasises strength, vigilance and solitude. Batman stands alone above Gotham, not as a superhero engaged in battle, but as a watchful guardian whose mere presence offers protection to the city below.

The piece forms part of a wider series of commissioned Batman artworks created by Javier Gonzalez specifically for the Martin Nealon Collection.

Historical Context

Batman first appeared in Detective Comics #27 and has since become one of the most recognisable fictional characters in the world.

Curator's Comment

This is one of the most quintessential Batman images within the collection. While several commissions focus on villains, conflict and action, this piece captures the essence of Batman himself.

The artwork succeeds because of its simplicity. Batman is not fighting, running or engaged in a dramatic confrontation. Instead, he stands in quiet contemplation above Gotham City, embodying everything the character represents: vigilance, determination and protection.

The moonlit backdrop, classic costume design and gothic gargoyle combine to create an image that feels timeless. It is instantly recognisable as Batman and would be equally at home on the cover of a comic book, a gallery wall or within a private collection.

Among the Javier Gonzalez commissions, this stands as one of the purest celebrations of the Dark Knight and serves as an anchor piece within the broader Batman-themed collection.

Batman sketch card by Javier. A painting of Batman standing on a rocky ledge against a background of a cloudy sky with the moon shining.
Signed logo of Blacklit Studios, a handmade, original art business, with contact email blacklitstudios@gmail.com.

Javier Gonzalez

Title: Batman – The Dark Avenger
Artist: Javier Gonzalez (Blackhilt Studio)
Year: 2026
Medium: Original Hand-Drawn Commission Sketch Card

Description

This dramatic original commission by Javier Gonzalez presents Batman in one of his most primal and intimidating forms. Rather than portraying the Dark Knight as a calm and calculated detective, Javier reveals the fearsome creature that criminals believe stalks the shadows of Gotham City.

The composition is dominated by a powerful frontal portrait. Batman surges forward from the darkness, his cape spreading around him like the wings of a predator. His mouth is open in a ferocious roar, exposing clenched teeth and projecting an intensity rarely seen in traditional depictions of the character.

The artwork deliberately emphasises Batman's physicality. The broad shoulders, heavily sculpted musculature and aggressive stance create an image of overwhelming power. The lighting further enhances this effect, with cold blue highlights cutting across the armour while deep shadows engulf much of the figure.

The result is a Batman who appears less like a conventional superhero and more like the terrifying urban myth that Gotham's criminals fear encountering in the darkness.

Collector's Notes

This commission is particularly notable because it explores a different aspect of Batman's character from many of the other pieces within the collection.

Where Guardian of Gotham portrays Batman as a watchful protector and symbol of hope, The Dark Avenger focuses on the fear that Batman intentionally cultivates. The artwork reflects Bruce Wayne's own philosophy that criminals are a superstitious and cowardly lot, and that fear itself can become a weapon.

The piece forms part of a bespoke series of Batman commissions created by Javier Gonzalez specifically for the Martin Nealon Collection.

Historical Context

Batman first appeared in Detective Comics #27 and has evolved through numerous interpretations over the decades.

The aggressive expression and predatory posture also recall elements seen in influential works such as Batman: The Dark Knight Returns, where Batman is portrayed as an almost supernatural force of vengeance.

Curator's Comment

Among the Javier Gonzalez Batman commissions, this is arguably the most aggressive and emotionally charged interpretation of the character.

Batman sketch card. A detailed, stylized drawing of Batman with a fierce, angry expression, wearing his iconic cowl and costume, with a background featuring dark colors and a glowing light behind his head.
Handmade logo of Black Hill Studios featuring bold, black, stylized text with a border, handwritten signature with the year 2026, and an email address blackhiltstudios@gmail.com.

Trev Murphy

About Trev Murphy

Trev Murphy is a British illustrator and caricature artist who has worked professionally across traditional and digital media. Although many collectors know him through sketch cards, his portfolio extends well beyond trading cards into illustration, caricature and digital artwork. On his own portfolio site he explains that he worked as a sketch card artist for many years and enjoys using Copic markers, multiliners, inks, gouache and acrylics, alongside digital tools such as Procreate and Clip Studio Paint.

Trading card work

Trev has contributed artwork for a number of major trading card companies including:

  • Cryptozoic

  • Upper Deck

  • Breygent

  • Various independent sketch card releases

For DC collectors, he is particularly known for work on:

  • Batman: The Legend

  • Superman: The Legend

  • DC New 52

  • DC Battle Cards

He has also produced Marvel, Star Wars and many horror and television-themed sketch cards during his career.

His artistic style

One reason I like Trev's work is that it sits somewhere between comic art and portrait painting.

His work typically features:

  • Strong facial likenesses.

  • Fine cross-hatching rather than heavy black fills.

  • Warm earth tones mixed with cool blue shadows.

  • Excellent control of light across the face.

  • Expressive eyes.

  • Loose but confident pen work that gives the image energy.

The Joker demonstrates this perfectly.

Rather than trying to copy a movie still exactly, he's interpreted Heath Ledger's performance. Notice:

  • the subtle blue-grey shadows around the cheeks,

  • the delicate pen lines defining the wrinkles,

  • the warm highlights across the forehead,

  • restrained use of red in the lips and scars,

  • and the eyes looking slightly upward rather than directly at the viewer.

Those small artistic decisions make the piece feel like an original illustration rather than a traced portrait.

Reputation among collectors

Among sketch card collectors, Trev Murphy has a solid reputation as a dependable, technically accomplished artist. Collectors consistently regard his work as high quality. His portraits, in particular, are very well received because of their likeness and finish.

The Joker, Batman sketch card. Painting of the Joker with painted white face, dark eye makeup, red lips, and a scar on the cheek, wearing a dark jacket.
A collection of hand-drawn portrait sketches of various characters, including a clown, a woman with red hair, Superman, and several men with different expressions. There is a note indicating the sketches are by artist Trev Murphy, along with his contact information.

Art Jay

Title: Batman vs Joker (Absolute Batman)

Artist: Art Jay (Current working for Cryptozoic and Star Wars)
Year: 2026

Description

A dramatic and highly detailed confrontation between Batman and the monstrous Joker beneath a full moon. The composition is exceptionally ambitious for sketch card format, with Art Jay using virtually every millimetre of available space to create a cinematic scene.

The artwork combines strong comic-book line-work with atmospheric horror elements. Batman is positioned in the foreground wielding a battle axe while the enormous Joker dominates the composition, emerging from a landscape of twisted roots, skulls and blood-soaked ground. The glowing eyes, blood splatter effects and moonlit backdrop create a powerful gothic aesthetic that feels reminiscent of classic Batman horror stories and modern heavy-metal comic artwork.

Particularly notable is the scale contrast between the figures. Rather than producing a simple character portrait, Art Jay has created a complete narrative scene with foreground, mid-ground and background elements, something collectors generally regard more highly than standard head sketches.

The artwork is based on the ‘Absolute Batman’ comic style 2026

Collector Appeal

This piece appeals to:

  • Batman sketch card collectors.

  • Horror-themed Batman collectors.

  • Man-Bat character collectors.

  • Original art collectors.

  • Art Jay commission collectors.

Absolute Batman sketch card. Sketch of a person holding a chain or cord, with their arm extended, possibly in a dynamic pose.
A collection of hand-drawn sketch card art featuring comic book characters like Spider-Man, Wolverine, and others, with a congratulatory message and credit to artist ArtJay.
Absolute Batman sketch card. A detailed, dark fantasy-style illustration of a fierce creature with a skull-like face, green glowing eyes, and a crown of leaves, riding a motorcycle at night with a full moon and flying bats in the background.
Absolute Batman sketch card. Black and white illustration of a fierce wolf with sharp teeth, snarling with a protruding tongue. The wolf is surrounded by swarming bats and tangled vines. There are skulls at the bottom and a dark, ominous background.

Art Jay

Artist: Art Jay
Title: Poison Ivy – Absolute Evolution
Year: 2026
Medium: Original Pencil, Ink and Colour Illustration on Artist Commission Card Stock
Provenance: Direct Artist Commission

Description

This original commission by Art Jay is a reinterpretation of the modern Poison Ivy character inspired by the contemporary Absolute Batman universe. Rather than simply reproducing the published cover artwork, the artist has created a highly detailed and personal interpretation that expands upon the original concept whilst remaining faithful to its dark and organic aesthetic.

The composition presents Poison Ivy emerging from a dense mass of twisting vines, roots, serpentine forms, and organic growth. Her body appears fused with the surrounding vegetation, creating a powerful visual representation of nature reclaiming humanity. The artwork is both beautiful and unsettling, reflecting the duality that has always defined the character.

The highly intricate line work is a defining feature of the piece. Hundreds of individual marks combine to create a complex network of botanical forms, snakes, thorns, roots, and textured surfaces that reward prolonged examination. The detailed black-and-white ink version demonstrates the artist's exceptional draftsmanship, whilst the finished colour version introduces rich greens, earth tones, deep reds, and subtle purple accents that bring the composition to life.

The result is a striking contemporary interpretation of one of Batman's most iconic adversaries and one that sits comfortably alongside the darker visual language of the Absolute Batman universe.

Creation Documentation

This artwork benefits from exceptional provenance and documentation.

Included within the provenance archive are:

  • Direct correspondence with the artist.

  • Preliminary pencil development photographs.

  • Work-in-progress imagery documenting the evolution of the piece.

  • Finished ink stage documentation.

  • Final colour stage documentation.

  • Signed artwork front and reverse.

  • Direct commission history.

The inclusion of development photographs is particularly significant as they provide a complete visual record of the creative process from initial sketch through to final completion. Such documentation is rarely retained and adds considerable historical and collector interest to the artwork.

One of the strongest aspects of this commission is the sheer complexity of the drawing. Art Jay has demonstrated remarkable patience and control throughout the piece, particularly within the intricate interwoven botanical forms and serpentine details.

The work also possesses a strong "gallery illustration" quality. Unlike many commission cards that focus primarily on a character portrait, this piece functions as a complete artwork where the environment, symbolism, and character all contribute equally to the final image.

The monochrome version alone would stand as a highly desirable original drawing, whilst the completed colour version demonstrates the artist's ability to guide the viewer's eye through an extremely complex composition without losing clarity.

A congratulatory card featuring hand-drawn artwork in comic book style. Upper section shows superheroes in action, such as Spider-Man, Wolverine, and other characters fighting villains in a cityscape. Lower section depicts a superhero in a pink and blue costume launching a powerful attack with explosions and destruction in the background. Text indicates the recipient has received a hand-drawn artwork by ArtJay, and includes a Facebook link for more.
Poison Ivy. Absolute Batman sketch card. Fictional woman with green hair, dragon horns, and a crown, surrounded by snakes, reptiles, and roots in a jungle setting.
Poison Ivy, Absolute Batman sketch card. A detailed black-and-white drawing of a fantasy character with long hair, pointed ears, and various snakes intertwined around their body.
Poison Ivy, Absolute Batman sketch card.Black and white illustration of a fantasy scene featuring a smiling elf-like character at the center with long hair and a crown of twisted branches,

Sabrina Ringenbach

Harley Quinn

Sabrina Ringenbach is a well-known sketch card artist and illustrator in the non-sport trading card hobby.

Background

  • Professional illustrator and sketch card artist

  • Works mainly in coloured pencil and mixed media

  • Known for highly expressive female characters

  • Often creates anime / manga-inspired interpretations of pop-culture characters

Trading card sets she has worked on

She has contributed sketch cards to several licensed trading card products from companies such as:

  • Rittenhouse Archives

  • Cryptozoic Entertainment

  • Upper Deck

Examples of sets and properties she has worked on include:

  • DC Comics trading card sets

  • Marvel trading card sets

  • Star Trek sketch card releases

  • Game of Thrones trading cards

She has also done artist proof cards and private commissions, which are often more detailed than pack-insert sketches.

Harley Quinn sketch card. A colorful illustration of Harley Quinn with she is smiling and showing her teeth, with blonde hair in pigtails and blue and pink streaks, wearing a strappy top.

Sabrina Ringenbach

Poison Ivy

Sabrina Ringenbach is a well-known sketch card artist and illustrator in the non-sport trading card hobby.

Background

  • Professional illustrator and sketch card artist

  • Works mainly in coloured pencil and mixed media

  • Known for highly expressive female characters

  • Often creates anime / manga-inspired interpretations of pop-culture characters

Trading card sets she has worked on

She has contributed sketch cards to several licensed trading card products from companies such as:

  • Rittenhouse Archives

  • Cryptozoic Entertainment

  • Upper Deck

Examples of sets and properties she has worked on include:

  • DC Comics trading card sets

  • Marvel trading card sets

  • Star Trek sketch card releases

  • Game of Thrones trading cards

She has also done artist proof cards and private commissions, which are often more detailed than pack-insert sketches.

Poison Ivy sketch card. Drawing of a woman with long red hair, green eyes, and green gloves, wearing a matching green top.

Rachael Harper

This highly collectable, original ACEO / sketch card has been hand drawn by artist RAC Harper.

Size : 2.5inches X 3.5inches (standard ACEO size)

Medium : 2B and 7B Faber Castell graphite pencils on Winsor & Newton 220gsm, off white cartridge paper

Signed and dated by the artist on the reverse

Batman sketch card. A black and white drawing of Batman with a serious expression, wearing his costume and cape, set against a starry background.