Marion Lagarde, an eye in love with architecture
Paper & Pen, Freehand Architectural Portraits
Marion Lagarde is a self-taught artist who has turned her passion for architecture into a profession. Under the name Paper & Pen, she creates freehand drawings with a fine black pen, crafting architectural portraits of remarkable precision. Her work lies at the intersection of illustration and emotion, as what she seeks above all is to capture the deep connection we share with the places around us.
With Paper & Pen, Marion offers two main types of creations :
On one hand, Houses Portraits for individuals – true tributes to those living spaces that hold so many memories.
On the other hand, Portraits of establishments for businesses – hotels, restaurants, boutiques, or headquarters – which become unique communication tools, carrying pride and authenticity. Her elegant line enhances every architectural detail: a sign, a cornice, a glass roof… every element becomes an opportunity to highlight the identity of the place.
Alongside her commissioned work, Marion also dedicates part of her time to creating City posters.
These illustrations are based on photographs and require hours of meticulous work. They embody everything that defines Paper & Pen: the richness of detail, the delicacy of the line, and the caring gaze cast upon each building. Each city she draws becomes a place where one can project their memories or dreams. From Strasbourg to Vannes, Marseille to Tangier, and especially New York – a city she is particularly fond of – Marion brings to life urban landscapes in which everyone can find their special place.
Her approach is driven by a profound intention: to immortalize the places that bring happiness. Whether it’s a family home, a characterful building, or a grand urban square, her drawings tell a story – one of attachment, emotion, and a moment in time.
Today, Marion’s illustrations have become unique decorative artworks, both aesthetic and meaningful, transforming a workspace into a soulful place. An architectural drawing not only brings beauty but also conveys a message: the pride of a place, respect for its history, and the desire to honor it.
Every line drawn by Marion Lagarde is an invitation to see our surroundings differently. Through Paper & Pen, she restores architecture to the place it deserves: that of a living, beautiful, and inspiring memory.
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