A penciler is an artist who creates the initial drawings for comic books or graphic novels. They are responsible for sketching the characters, backgrounds, and action scenes, laying the groundwork for the final artwork. The penciler's work is crucial, as it sets the visual tone and storytelling pace of the comic. After the penciler completes their drawings, the next step often involves an inker, who adds depth and detail by outlining the pencil sketches. This collaboration between the penciler and inker is essential in the comic creation process, ensuring that the final product is polished and visually appealing.