Visual Artist - Baker - Jewelry Designer | Kenya
Nazreen
Born in 1969
Spotlight
Where Art Becomes Breath: The World of Nazreen Kanani
The story of Nazreen Kanani is not told in words alone. It is whispered through pigments, echoed in stone, and sung in the language of hands that never stop creating. Every brushstroke she lays, every fragment of mosaic she assembles, carries the pulse of life itself: tender, intricate, and unafraid.
Her journey is one of devotion to craft and to humanity. From the shimmering softness of watercolour to the bold permanence of sculpture, from the fragility of fabric to the strength of stone, Nazreen transforms materials into memory. Her work is a living diary. Rooted in nature, steeped in culture, and lit by the quiet fire of personal experience.
But her art is not confined to canvas or gallery walls. It spills outward, into gardens that breathe harmony, into homes that hold colour like sunlight, into classrooms where young minds learn to dream. She is an artist, yes, but also a teacher, a guide, a presence who believes that creativity is not a luxury. It is a lifeline.
Her service beyond the studio speaks just as loudly as her art. In education, she nurtures futures; in women’s empowerment, she raises voices; in wildlife conservation and refugee support, she extends compassion across borders. To encounter her work is to encounter her heart, stitched into every gesture, every act of giving.
Exhibited across Kenya, France, the UAE, and Portugal, Nazreen’s creations travel further than geography. They move through people, leaving traces that endure. She reminds us that art is not simply what we see, but what changes us, what lingers when silence returns.
In Nazreen Kanani’s world, art is more than creation. It is breath. It is hope. It is the most human of stories. Told in colour, stone, and light.
Artworks by Nazreen
About the creator
- Nazreen is a multidisciplinary artist based in Nairobi, working across painting, sculpture, mosaics, and jewelry making. Her work is inspired by nature, culture, and personal stories, with a deep interest in exploring texture and technique to bring each piece to life. In addition to her studio practice, she is also an art educator, sharing her passion through classes and community projects.
Education
Nazreen Kanani’s educational background combines creative arts, language, and international studies. She holds a Diploma in Graphic Design from the Technical University of Kenya (1988), which laid the foundation for her career as a visual artist. She also earned a Diploma in French Language from Alliance Française in 1996, reflecting her multilingual capabilities. Additionally, she studied Foundational International Relations at the United States International University in 1994, and completed her O' Levels at Muslim Girls Secondary School in 1987. She has also pursued professional development through certified courses in Colour Theory and Lighting (2012), Garden Design (2014), Neuro-Linguistic Programming, Art Therapy, Neuro Art, and Early Childhood Development.
Exhibitions
Nazreen has exhibited her art both locally and internationally, reflecting her versatility and global outlook. Her work has been featured in exhibitions across Kenya, France, the UAE, and Portugal, showcasing her expertise in various mediums such as painting, sculpture, and calligraphy. These exhibitions reflect her ability to connect with diverse audiences and position her as a significant figure in the East African art scene.
Achievements
Nazreen’s achievements span across art, education, and community service. She has built a multifaceted career as a freelance visual artist, art instructor, jewelry maker, and interior designer, offering workshops, personalized commissions, and creative services. She is a certified mental health and suicide first aid responder, and actively contributes to society as a board member of Aga Khan Education Services, where she supports students through tutoring and career guidance. She also volunteers in early childhood education, women’s empowerment initiatives, wildlife conservation, and refugee support. Her ability to merge artistic practice with social impact distinguishes her as both a creator and a changemaker.
Artistic Style
Nazreen Kanani is a multidisciplinary artist known for her textured, expressive, and highly detailed work. Her practice spans painting (watercolour, acrylic, oil, and Chinese brush techniques), sculpture, mosaics, jewelry design, and calligraphy. Her art is inspired by nature, culture, and personal narratives, and often emphasizes handcrafted techniques and material exploration—from polymer clay to recycled fabric and natural stones. She brings the same attention to design in her interior and garden projects, highlighting her appreciation for harmony, colour, and human experience across environments.
Masterpieces by Nazreen
