Branwell Brontë

Character illustration for Brontë Bitch merchandise

I created a character illustration of Branwell Brontë for Haworth-based brand, Brontë Bitch. Launched in lockdown, the brand celebrates the life and works of the famous Brontë sisters and their family. The brand’s founder, Rosalia, approached me to create an illustration of Branwell, the brother of Anne, Charlotte, and Emily.

The notoriety of Branwell’s addictions and perceived rebellious nature has become a dominating shadow over his true skill as a talented writer, painter and poet. His story is ultimately a tragic one. Despite his artistic strengths, it is understood that the greater influence of his sister’s publications may have led Branwell down the path of despair. 

“I’d like an illustration – no face detail necessary. Setting 1800s Victorian era – perhaps in a room drinking and a tincture of opium?”

Branwell’s demise was due to his demons, alcohol and opium addiction. In my illustration, he is framed in a cameo-shaped scene, entwined with poppy flowers and seed heads.  This twine represents the suffocating, addictive hold that opiates had on Bramwell, trapping him in the frame with himself and his demons that he can’t escape.

Other features of the illustration are:

Laudanum bottle

Wine glasses

Bookshelf – Representing Branwell’s literary skills. Some of the books sit upright in the shelf, others are fallen, symbolising instability.

“Fortune, how fickle and how vain thou art” – one of Branwell’s quotes.

You can buy tote bags, gift cards, and tea towels featuring my Branwell illustration on the Brontë Bitch Etsy store.

doodlher + your project
Showcasing your story through illustration

The power of pictures. It's the one language we all understand. I am passionate about translating written and spoken stories into illustrations that spark curiosity and engage your audience. If you enjoy my work and would like to see what I can bring to your project, please get in touch.

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