NEW YORK, NY.- Vishwesh Panchal's journey through the world of art and architecture is one of passion, heritage, and an unending fascination with urban landscapes. With an evocative eye for detail and a deep appreciation for the beauty of cityscapes, Vishwesh has cultivated a remarkable talent for architectural sketching, offering fresh perspectives on the spaces we inhabit. His artistic evolution, rooted in profound inspiration and intricate processes, reveals a story of relentless dedication and an intimate connection to the built environment.
Vishwesh is a distinguished member of the American Society of Architectural Illustrators (ASAI), an esteemed international nonprofit dedicated to promoting and recognizing architectural illustration. This year, Vishwesh won a honorable "Award of Excellence" in the Observation Drawing category at the Architecture in Perspective 38 (AIP 38) competition. AIP 38, hosted by ASAI for 38 years, is an internationally recognized competition judged by a panel of renowned experts. His winning illustration, titled East 6th Street in downtown Austin, TX, has been selected for inclusion in the AIP 38 annual catalog and exhibition. The exhibition will debut at the ASAI annual conference at Texas A&M University in College Station this October, where Vishwesh will accept his award in person. His selection places him among an elite group of architects and illustrators whose work will be featured in this prestigious showcase.
As he grew older, Vishwesh's fascination with architecture blossomed. He was captivated by the way buildings could combine functionality with aesthetic beauty. "This drove me to focus on architecture as a means to channel my artistic skills into creating spaces that inspire and serve people," he explains. His sketches are not just drawings but narratives of urban settings, each stroke reflecting his profound admiration for architectural forms.
While family influence played a crucial role in shaping Vishwesh's artistic journey, his skills truly flourished under the mentorship of Professor Henry Sorenson at Montana State University. "His mentorship and guidance significantly shaped my approach to architecture and design, further enhancing my skills," says Vishwesh. Sorenson's influence helped Vishwesh refine his techniques and deepen his understanding of architectural elements, pushing the boundaries of his creativity.
The central themes of Vishwesh's work revolve around the urban landscape and its intricate details. He captures the essence of our built environment, focusing on the interplay between structures, spaces, and the subtle nuances that define them. "My sketches aim to reflect the harmony and contrast found in urban settings," he notes, "showcasing both the grand scale of cityscapes and the finer details that often go unnoticed."
Vishwesh's background in architecture significantly influences his approach to sketching. "This training allows me to capture the structural intricacies and spatial relationships within the built environment with precision," he explains. His sketches are marked by a deep understanding of form, proportion, and detail, bridging the gap between conceptual ideas and tangible visual representation. This refined skill has been honed through his work with prominent architecture firms both in India and the United States, such as Lord, Aeck & Sargent, Perkins & Will, and Arcadis.
His keen observation skills and strong architectural drawing abilities enable him to convey the essence of architectural elements accurately. This foundation not only enhances the technical quality of his sketches but also imbues them with a sense of realism and depth, allowing viewers to experience the true beauty and complexity of urban structures.
Vishwesh's creative process begins with his travels. "Most of my sketches are inspired by my travels to new places, which allow me to truly experience my surroundings and observe the details," he shares. He often opts for observational sketches, starting with a light outline using a red pencil to capture the basic shapes and composition. Once satisfied with the initial sketch, Vishwesh refines the details with ink pens. "While most of my sketches are monochromatic, I occasionally add color with markers or watercolors to highlight specific features," he adds. This method helps him capture the essence and intricate details of his subjects, bringing his sketches to life. His choice of tools reflects his commitment to capturing the spontaneity and essence of the urban landscapes he encounters.
One of the most challenging sketches Vishwesh has worked on is the Santa Maria degli Angeli Basilica church in Rome. "The sheer size of the dome and the perspective it creates posed significant difficulties," he recalls. Capturing the intricate details and the way light penetrates through the skylight required meticulous attention and patience. This sketch, a true test of his skills, stands as a testament to his persistence and dedication.
Almost all of Vishwesh's travel observational sketches hold special significance for him. "They capture moments from when I was fully present, creating lasting memories," he says. When he sketches, time seems to stand still, allowing him to deeply connect with the places and experiences that inspire his work.
Through his work, Vishwesh hopes to inspire a deeper appreciation for the intricate details and unique character of urban environments. "I want viewers to see the beauty in everyday surroundings and feel inspired by the interplay of architecture and life within the city," he says. His sketches aim to evoke a sense of connection to the spaces we inhabit, highlighting the essence of urban landscapes.
After the AIP 38 conference and exhibition in October, Vishwesh plans on having his art and sketches in other exhibitions. Vishwesh is hard at work on new sketches that will explore the beauty and complexity of our architectural surroundings. His art encourages us to pause, observe, and appreciate the harmony and contrast that define the urban settings we often take for granted. Through his eyes, we are reminded that every corner, every structure, and every detail has a story worth telling.
