Meticulous Ballpoint Pen Drawings

by Habib Hajallie

“This Mind Hath Demolition Reached” (2025), ballpoint pen on antique texts, 11 3/4 x 16 1/2 inches.

In ballpoint pen on found fragments of philosophical and historical texts, Habib Hajallie delves into the emotional realm of memory, connection, and loss. The Kent-based artist often celebrates Black cultural figures and beloved family members, along with examining his own personal experiences as a British man of Sierra Leonean and Lebanese heritage. In his current solo exhibition, Black & Blue at Larkin Durey, Hajallie grapples with the devastating stillbirth of his daughter and the “indescribable emotions that sit beneath language,” says the gallery.

“Still Remain” (2026), ballpoint pen on antique texts, 11 3/8 x 16 1/2 inches

For this show, the artist deliberately switched from using black ballpoint ink to blue. As he made these works, Hajallie also reflected on the loss of his sister four years ago. Using antique maps and snippets of philosophical and sociological writings, he portrays subtle sides of what the gallery describes as “an altered sense of self.” Figures, including several self-portraits, exude feelings of despair, confusion, numbness, care, and the nuanced emotions that emerge in-between.

“Nothing Else to Fear” (2026), ballpoint pen on antique texts, 33 1/8 x 23 1/4 inches

“While this series is concerned with the internal landscape of loss and what it means to endure a profoundly altered reality, each artwork has acted as an invaluable step towards healing,” the gallery says. “By drawing directly onto antique texts that explore morality, purpose, and transcendence, Hajallie’s personal pain enters into a wider conversation about finding meaning and the ways in which drawing can become a space of solace and catharsis.”

Black & Blue continues through May 22 in London. See more on the artist’s Instagram.

“Arise and Walk Strongly and Fearlessly” (2026), ballpoint pen on antique texts, 33 1/8 x 23 1/4 inches

Habib Hajallie

According to superstition, saying “rabbit rabbit” before anything else on the first day of the month will bring you good luck for 30 days, or not.

The Fascinating Edible Dormouse: A Tiny Creature with a Rich History and Amazing Abilities. Did you know that the Edible Dormouse (Glis glis), also known as the common dormouse or fat European dormouse, has a rich history and fascinating abilities? 

Name and History: The name "edible dormouse" comes from an ancient Roman tradition where these small creatures were considered a delicacy. Romans even kept them in special cages called glirariums to fatten them up before serving them at lavish feasts. 

Climbing Ability:Dormice are skilled climbers thanks to their long toes and sharp claws, allowing them to move nimbly through trees. This ability helps them avoid predators and find food easily.

Long Hibernation:The name "dormouse" comes from the French word dormir meaning “to sleep,” as these little creatures can spend up to 9 months of the year resting or hibernating. They truly live up to their name!

A 2+ minute video, Antartica, here.

Just because ...

Blue Pita

Monday's Smiles ...

Hoping you feel all the good things in your day.