Autobiography:

Nature inherently possesses a magical and inspiring characteristic which I discovered upon my relocation from Chicago to the breathtaking mountains and trees of Washington State and British Columbia over a decade ago.

My name is Jalal Gilani. I am a contemporary artist and art educator. I studied electronic engineering in college and taught myself how to draw and paint as a child growing up in Karachi, Pakistan. Still, I never dared to publicize my passion for art because it was frowned upon. When I moved to Chicago in 1995, I wanted to get a degree in visual arts from the Art Institute of Chicago and become an artist by profession. But, I was advised to pursue engineering to support a future family better. The paints, brushes, and tools could re-emerge as a hobby. I literally said goodbye to my fine arts dreams. I stopped going to museums and galleries and ended up looking at paintings. I pretty much decided this was not for me. But the move to the State Of Washington in 2000 and frequent visits to beautiful British Columbia brought back the inspiration and artistic spirit that I left behind. I attended art classes at a community college and joined the Oxford University Department for Continuing Education, where I studied Art History, Modern art, and Islamic Art and Architecture. 2018, I completed my Master's in Art Education at the Academy of Art University, San Francisco. Today, I run an art studio in a small town, Everett, WA, where I teach and create art.

My work has been displayed in twenty-plus solo and group exhibitions. Being an artist and instructor, I always believe that an artist is hidden inside each person - inspiration is the only tool to unlock the hidden talent.