Meet Sheren Meadi | Visual Artist | Realism & Figurative Art | Educator

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

Hi Sheren, why did you pursue a creative career?
For me, pursuing an artistic career was never just about creating something beautiful—it was about expressing who I am and sharing my story. From the time I was a child, art gave me a sense of freedom and belonging. Moving from Iraq to Syria and then to the United States at a young age meant starting over more than once, and art became the one constant that grounded me.

I realized early on that my creativity wasn’t just a hobby—it was a calling. In school, when teachers encouraged me to enter exhibitions, I felt the power of connection that comes from seeing others moved by my work. Selling my first piece in high school was a turning point. It wasn’t about the money, but about realizing that my art had meaning for someone else, that it could live on beyond me.

Pursuing art professionally is my way of honoring that calling. My work allows me to merge my cultural heritage, my love for storytelling, and my dedication to detail into something tangible that people can feel. It keeps me inspired, and it also challenges me to keep growing.

At the end of the day, I chose this path because art is how I make sense of the world and how I hope to inspire others to see beauty, resilience, and meaning in their own journeys.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am a fine art visual artist who specializes in realism and figurative work, bringing detail, depth, and emotion into every piece I create. My work spans graphite, colored pencil, chalk pastel, charcoal, oil pastel, acrylic, oil, watercolor, ink, and mixed media. What sets me apart is the precision and storytelling I incorporate into each piece—I want my art to feel alive and to resonate deeply with the person viewing it.

One of the things I am most proud of is the recognition my art has received over the years. From winning first-place awards in high school art shows to having my piece Lovely Birds sold and displayed at Midwestern University, every milestone has been a reminder that hard work and perseverance pay off. I’ve also created commissioned portraits for clients both locally and internationally, which has allowed me to share my art with people from many different walks of life.

The road hasn’t always been easy. Moving from Iraq to Syria and then to the U.S. as a child meant constantly starting over and adjusting to new environments. On top of that, not everyone believed in my art. I faced criticism and doubt, but I learned to turn those challenges into motivation. Every obstacle helped me build resilience, patience, and the confidence to keep going even when things felt uncertain.

What I want the world to know about me and my art is that it’s more than just creativity—it’s about connection. My cultural background, my personal journey, and my dedication all come together in my work. Each piece carries a story, a message, or a piece of who I am. My goal is for people to not only see the detail and effort I put in but to also feel the heart behind it.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend came to visit Phoenix, I would want them to experience both the culture and the beauty that makes this city feel like home. I’d start by taking them to Downtown Phoenix to explore the local art scene — especially Roosevelt Row, where colorful murals and galleries capture the spirit of creativity in the city. We’d grab coffee at Songbird Coffee & Tea House, a cozy local spot, before walking through the Phoenix Art Museum to soak up more inspiration.

Another day, I’d plan a trip to Papago Park for hiking and the stunning views at Hole-in-the-Rock. Afterwards, we’d stop by The Desert Botanical Garden, where the desert landscape feels like a living artwork. For food, I’d take them to Pizzeria Bianco, famous for its wood-fired pizzas, and also to Little Miss BBQ, which is a must-try for anyone visiting Arizona.

For a mix of fun and relaxation, we’d head to Old Town Scottsdale to enjoy the shops, galleries, and nightlife, then spend an evening at Camelback Mountain watching the sunset — one of the most breathtaking views in the valley. On the final day, I’d bring them to Westgate Entertainment District in Glendale, where we could enjoy live music, good food, and plenty of energy to wrap up the trip.

Phoenix has such a unique blend of art, culture, food, and outdoor adventure, and I’d want my friend to experience that full spectrum — from the quiet moments in nature to the vibrant energy of the city.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would love to dedicate my shoutout to my art teachers, especially Ms. Munoz and Ms. Perry, who believed in me from the very beginning and pushed me to showcase my work even when I doubted myself. I also want to thank my mother, who encouraged my creativity from a young age, giving me crayons, sewing for my dolls, and inspiring me to pursue my passion. Without their guidance, love, and encouragement, I wouldn’t be the artist I am today.

Website: https://www.artpal.com/sherenfineartist

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artistsheren/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Fine.Art7373/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Artist-Sheren

Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@artistsheren

Image Credits
Madleen Khamisi
Sheren Meadi