Hasta La Creative!

Archan Nair is a self developed visual artist, and illustrator, specializing in mixed media, illustration, and digital art.

Archan is inspired by various phases and forms of life to create highly intricate works that connect the various dimensions of our existence.
Formerly a fashion major and entrepreneur, Archan started painting in 2006 at the age of 24 and made the shift to independent artist in 2007. Since then he has embarked on an exhilarating and inspirational journey, collaborating with various companies and individuals around the world such as Nike, Redbull, GM, Logitech, Canon etc. Archan has been featured in various publications and won accolades and has achieved recognition from music artists like Kanye West and collaborated with artists/celebrities like Lindsay Lohan and Chris Brown.

Archan’s passion and love for the creative process and expressing himself has opened a whole new journey, exploring the intricate nature of so called reality.

Why are you an Illustrator?
I love drawing, painting and expressing myself.

Did you attend school for fine art or design?
No..I am completely self taught and still in the process of a never-ending trip.

You have a distinct style of illustration. How long did it take you to develop your style?
I feel its an ever evolving process which keeps changing, and developing with all the influences around us.. for me it has been developing since i began back in 2007 and it still will keep as I keep moving along this journey

Were there any particular role models for you when you grew up?
My family , my parents have been really inspiring for me. They have been incredible support throughout!

Who was the most influential personality on your career in Illustrations?
It is really difficult to credit just 1 or a few people. Since there have been so many influences. from music , to our culture in india , to a lot of visual artists and sculptors. I feel inspired with everyone I come across I think.. especially people who do so much for others..

Are many advertising agencies getting illustrations made these days? Do you work more with agencies or publishers?
I usually work more with agencies , and they do get illustration and art projects commissioned. It really depends on the brief , requirement etc.

What made you decide to become a freelance illustrator? When did you start freelancing? Do you illustrate for advertising? Are many advertising agencies getting illustrations made these days? Do you work more with agencies or publishers?
I was into my family business for about 5 years as a successful entrepreneur, before I took a leap into visual art.. it was a sudden realisation after i started creating back in 2006, that I would like to just express my heart out.. and that was the time I took a call and followed my heart. So during 2007 end, i quit my family business and started from my studio in delhi.

Was there any time when you wanted to quit Illustrations?
Never ever!! and I can never even think about quitting.

Have you considered turning your illustrations into graphic novels?
Not at the moment, but hopefully in the future.. lets see, when I feel it

Any other Indian Illustrators who you admire?
I’ve been enjoying the works of Revathi Gangal lately… very interesting style and depth to her visual art.

You have such a wide experience as a top working professional. What advice do you have for aspiring creative professionals? Would you advise them to take on Illustration as a career option? Is it paying well enough?
I feel being original and discovering your own true essence is truly important. love what you create, imagination is the only knowledge and when we listen to our heart, we have access to that knowledge. when we do that, everything falls into place. its not about how well it pays or not. its about you loving what you do and expressing yourself.

Tell us something of your personal projects
They are a true reflection of each moment I experience. they are me.

What is your dream project?
Every project is a dream.. since I am creating and manifesting, feeling it!

Mac or PC?
Mac for now ..

Who would you like to take out for dinner?
My family… Love my family too deeply!

What’s on your iPod?
More than 6k tracks, need to sort them out sometime…
Lots of idm, and ambient

Archan can be contacted via his website here.

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