There’s a thin line between reality and animation — that’s where art thrives!

From doodling at the back of notebooks to crafting intricate anime-inspired artwork, Aarohi Pandey’s (Class IV) artistic journey is nothing short of inspiring. Selected as this week’s Apeejay Aspiring Artist, she opens up about her passion for drawing, how her school nurtures her creative spirit, and the new techniques she’s eager to master.

When did you start drawing?
When I was much younger, I used to make cards for my parents, teachers, and friends. I also loved doodling at the back of my notebooks! For two years, I mostly drew cartoons, but then I realised art was my true passion. Now, I give my best to every drawing, and I’m improving with each one. Hopefully, I’ll be a great artist someday!

Which art form is your favourite and why?
Anime! Japanese animation has a unique balance between reality and fantasy. That balance is what makes it so creative and visually stunning—it’s what inspires me the most.

How does your school support you as an artist?
My school offers so many extracurricular activities — sports, choir, and, of course, art! These opportunities help me explore my creativity and develop skills beyond academics. Art is like the feather in the cap!

What is your definition of art?
Art is anything an artist creates! It’s a way to express emotions and ideas, and I love adding colours to my imagination.

How long does it take to complete one artwork?
It takes me about an hour to finish a piece. I mostly draw things from my daily life — family, cartoons, pets, toys — whatever catches my attention!

What’s your next artwork?
I want to make my drawings more realistic, so I’m working on perspective drawing next.

Any new art forms you’d love to learn?
I’d love to master portrait drawing, landscape drawing, and sketching.

Apart from art, what else do you love?
I love singing devotional songs on social media and dancing!