The Passing Storm at Neuschwanstein is an original pen and pencil drawing inspired by a visit to the Füssen area of Bavaria, Germany, where I witnessed a dramatic storm passing over the extraordinary Neuschwanstein Castle.

There was something almost cinematic about the scene. With dark storm clouds gathering around the castle and the sound of thunder echoing across the landscape, it felt like watching an epic historical drama unfold before me. The contrast between the castle's fantastical architecture and the raw power of the passing storm made a lasting impression on me and provided the inspiration for this artwork.

Neuschwanstein is a remarkable subject in its own right, with its towers, turrets and romantic setting among the Bavarian Alps. Yet under a threatening sky, the famous fairytale castle takes on a more imposing character, appearing almost as though it belongs to a legend rather than the modern world. I wanted to capture something of that atmosphere in my drawing.

The castle's romantic associations also brought to mind Richard Wagner and King Ludwig II, whose shared fascination with medieval legends and dramatic storytelling helped shape the vision behind Neuschwanstein. Standing in the area during that storm, with thunder rolling across the landscape, I could readily imagine the atmosphere of one of Wagner's epic operas.

Working in pen and pencil allowed me to explore the intricate architectural details of the castle while developing the contrasts and textures needed to convey the drama of the scene. The result is my personal interpretation of a memorable moment in Bavaria, bringing together the romance of Neuschwanstein's architecture and the turbulent atmosphere of a passing storm.

For me, this drawing is as much about the experience that inspired it as the castle itself — a fleeting moment when the landscape, weather and architecture came together to create something unforgettable.

• Subject: Neuschwanstein Castle, Bavaria, Germany

• Medium: Pen and monochrome colour pencil

• Paper: Acid-free cartridge paper

• Image size: 59 × 41 cm

• Framed: No

• Original: Yes

• Certificate of Authentication: Yes

• Artist: Graham McKenzie-Smith