Rock Island Express | 9×12 Graphite Drawing of Rock Island “The Rocket” Locomotive by William Palm

Rock Island Express 

9 × 12 Graphite Drawing'

by William Palm

“Rock Island Express” is a 9×12 graphite drawing inspired by the streamlined power of the Rock Island Line’s famous “Rocket” locomotive. I wanted to capture the clean lines, bold lettering, and forward momentum that defined mid‑century passenger rail. Working in graphite allowed me to focus on form, contrast, and the subtle textures of steel, shadow, and motion