Architect-turned-artist Archana Pereira captures the character of cities through intricate pen-&-ink illustrations inspired by travel, architecture & everyday life…

An architect by profession and artist by passion, Archana Pereira brings cities to life through intricate pen-and-ink illustrations inspired by travel, architecture and history.

Originally from Kerala and now based in Mysuru, she founded Ink Trails in 2015. In this illustration studio, she documents iconic city landmarks through detailed hand-drawn sketches while also creating travel-inspired merchandise and commissioned artworks.

Archana completed her Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture from the University School of Design, Mysuru and Master’s from the Glasgow School of Art in Scotland. Her work has been showcased at the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival in Mumbai.

Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) also selected her illustrated map of Bengaluru. She was shortlisted among the top 100 artists worldwide for Le Grand Prix du Carré Hermès, an international art competition organised by Hermès.

A doting mother, Archana Pereira spoke to Star of Mysore about turning her travels and observations into detailed pen-and-ink artworks. When she isn’t sketching, she enjoys travelling, reading about places and planning itineraries. “Every city, street and structure carries a story. My art captures those moments in time,” she says. —Ed

By Shadan Muneer

Star of Mysore (SOM): From a qualified architect to a professional pen-and-ink artist, how did your creative journey begin?

Archana Pereira: I have always loved sketching, but my journey into pen-and-ink illustration began during my Master’s degree in Glasgow. An elective course titled ‘Drawing as Research’ inspired me to explore pen-and-ink as an artistic medium. The project was based on the concept of ‘Serial Vision’, where I created a series of sketches that formed a visual walk through of an area in Glasgow.

That experience led me to start sketching my travels, which eventually resulted in my first series of artworks on Bengaluru in 2016. The response was encouraging and the recognition and projects that followed led me to pursue illustration full-time.

SOM: Why did you choose pen-and- ink in a digital world? What draws you to architecture as your canvas and what goes through your mind while creating a piece?

Archana: I feel a personal connection with everything that is hand-crafted. In a fast-moving world, working with pen-and-ink allows me to slow down and build a visual story. I use ultra-fine technical pens for sketching and add subtle pops of colour, often with watercolours, to highlight elements that stand out.

Studying architecture helped me understand the importance of small details. I’m also drawn to the craftsmanship of older buildings and the rhythms of everyday life around them. Through my drawings, I try to capture these details and freeze moments in time. When I create a piece, I become completely immersed in it, almost transported to that place and time.

SOM: How does Mysuru inspire your work?

Archana: There is inspiration all around the city. Surrounded by rich heritage, beautiful old homes and historic streets, I feel fortunate to live in a city like Mysuru. It feels like an open-air museum where every structure and corner has a story to tell and I hope the city continues to retain this character and charm.

SOM: If you could capture one Indian city in your signature style, which would it be and why?

Archana: I would love to work on a book or series on Kerala, tracing my roots while capturing its beautiful architecture and culture. I have already worked on a series on Mysuru as part of a commissioned project, but I would love to create another for my brand ‘Ink Trails,’ capturing the everyday essence of the city before the city transforms further.

SOM: What inspired you to launch ‘Ink Trails’? How do you transform fine art into everyday products like stationery and home decor?

Archana: The concept of ‘Ink Trails’ began in 2015, combining my passion for travel, architecture and illustration. All the artworks are hand-drawn. My idea with ‘Ink Trails’ was to make art more relatable and affordable by bringing it into everyday life through stationery and home decor.

Images of my illustrations are taken to transform them into ‘Ink Trails’ products such as limited edition art prints, coasters, souvenirs, postcards and notebooks. Alongside this, I continue to create original commissioned artworks under my name, Archana Pereira, for collectors, museums and other projects.

SOM: What challenges have you faced as a young creative entrepreneur and how did you overcome them?

Archana: Not everything you create is always accepted or appreciated, and in the beginning, it is not always financially viable. What helped me was finding a niche and connecting with people through my art. It has taken time, but the journey has been very rewarding. Staying self-driven throughout has been important.

SOM: How do you stay focused during your sketching process? Could you share some tips for maintaining focus during work?

Archana: More than focus, it is dedication and the discipline of showing up every day. My goals keep me driven and staying organised and planning my day helps. Having a peaceful studio in Mysuru also provides the perfect setting to focus and create my art.

Ultimately, determination and consistency are key to staying focused.

SOM: What does Women’s Day mean to you personally? And what message would you like to share with women on Women’s Day? 

Archana: Personally, I do not believe in celebrating women for just one day. Real empowerment lies in encouraging and uplifting one another every day and ensuring that every woman has the freedom to pursue her dreams without limits.

My message to women everywhere is to follow your passions, remain inspired and inspire others along the way.