Zeenya Imran’s artwork: A story of girls’ autonomy within traditional boundaries

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Source: Supplied / Zeenya Imran

When Zeenya’s father built their new home, he deliberately left the walls unpainted so the children could fill them with their own creative designs—an early experience that inspired Perth-based young artist Zeenya Imran to move her talents onto canvas. Now 19 and living in Perth, her work is featured in exhibitions and presents modesty and dignity as sources of strength and empowerment. Listen this conversation in this Podcast.


Zeenya's father Muhammad Imran Khan says When we built our home, we deliberately left the walls unpainted so that the children could colour and design the space according to their own creativity. We wanted them to go beyond just filling in colours or drawing—they could freely express their thoughts and emotions on the canvas or walls.

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An artwork of Zeenya Imran Credit: supplied by Zeenya Imran

We noticed that when children engage in creative work of their own choice, it fosters confidence, joy, and a sense of personal freedom.

When children colour, draw shapes, or tell stories through images, they learn that their thoughts and ideas matter and are valued. This develops a strong sense of identity and self-confidence, which benefits them in all areas of life.

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