‍ Artist Bio

Noureen Imran is a Pakistani-born emerging artist based in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Originally from Lahore, she moved to the United States in 2008 and began painting in 2019. Largely self-taught, she has developed her practice through independent study, observation, and continued experimentation. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of the Punjab, and her interest in human emotions influences the way she approaches her subjects. Working mainly in oil and acrylic, Noureen paints figures, portraits, landscapes, and architectural scenes inspired by personal memories and her Pakistani heritage. Her work often explores identity, belonging, womanhood, resilience, and the experience of living between two cultures. Her paintings have been included in group exhibitions across Oklahoma, including exhibitions at Gaylord-Pickens Museum, Living Arts of Tulsa, Paseo Arts, Creativity Center, and in Pakistan. Her work has also been selected through juried open calls, including Living Arts of Tulsa’s 2026 Indulgence exhibition. Alongside her studio practice, Noureen works as a part-time educator in Tulsa. She continues to develop her voice as an emerging artist and to create work grounded in memory, emotion, and lived experience.

Artist Statement

I am an emerging artist, and painting has become the way I understand and express feelings that are sometimes difficult to explain in words. My work is influenced by my childhood memories of Lahore, my Pakistani heritage, and my life in the United States. I often paint people, old buildings, doors, streets, landscapes, and familiar objects that carry personal or cultural meaning. In my figurative work, I explore identity, womanhood, inner conflict, strength, vulnerability, and the emotions people may hide beneath a calm appearance. My series Memories looks back at places and moments from Lahore that remain alive in my mind, while Becoming reflects on the emotional experiences, restrictions, and transformations that shape a woman’s identity. I sometimes use symbols such as chains, flowers, hands, fabric, light, and architectural details to add another layer of meaning. I work mainly with oils and acrylics, combining realistic subjects with expressive color, texture, and atmosphere. When I paint, I feel connected to my memories and to parts of myself that can be overlooked in everyday life. The process gives me a sense of peace, freedom, and emotional release. Through my paintings, I hope viewers can recognize something from their own memories and feelings and form a personal connection with the work.