Meet Najia Omer | Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Najia Omer and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Najia, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
I’m from the city of Karachi in Pakistan. As an adult, parent and artist, I’ve been hugely shaped by my background and the culture I grew up with. In my culture there is a lot of importance given to family, and that is what I practice in my home and with my children. I have grown up with the immigrant mindset, which pushes me to be better and do better on a daily basis. The visual language in my paintings is strongly inspired by my culture and background, in terms of the symbols and materials I use such as gold thread. My work shares the journey of an immigrant woman.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art practice has really evolved over the years. My family and kids have always been my number one priority. So when my kids were younger and not in full-day school, the time I was able to give my work was significantly less. But I knew Art was something that I needed in my life. So, I found ways to do be an artist and a present mom, and not let one feel like it was being compromised. Sometimes my kids would work on their own paintings right next to me while I worked on my painting. Which is also how the ‘Dear Diary’ series came into existence. This comprises small 5 x 7 inch pieces of brown paper bags accompanied by a small pouch of art materials that I carry with me; then I use these to work during gym class, or swimming classes etc. Now that both my kids are older and are in full-day school, I am able to dedicate more time to my art practice. I’m throughly enjoying this new phase for my work, to see how much it is growing as I give it more time and energy.
I’m excited to see how my work continues to grow, and how my culture continues to show up in my art.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I myself feel like I’m still discovering Houston! My family and I moved here just about a year ago, and there is so much to do and see! But one of our favorite things about Houston, is of course the food! We love how much variety in cuisine this place has to offer. The Pakistani restaurants here are the real deal and places like Bundu Khan and Himalaya have quickly become a part of our monthly routine!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My husband, who has always encouraged me and pushed me to keep going. I don’t think I would be able to follow my passion, and juggle a household without having a partnership with him.

Website: Www.najiaomer.com

Instagram: @najiaomer