Dr. Sumera Jawad was born in Pakistan and showed an early interest in the arts. She pursued her formal education in fine arts at the University of the Punjab, Lahore, where she earned both her Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) and Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degrees in painting. Her academic excellence was recognized through multiple merit scholarships and Gold Medals in both programs. She later completed a practice-based Ph.D. focusing on the evolution of female imagery in art, which further deepened her understanding of visual culture and gender studies.

Academic and Professional Career
Dr. Sumera Jawad currently serves as a Professor and the Principal of the University College of Art & Design at the University of the Punjab, Lahore. She has held various leadership roles in the academic art community and is frequently invited as a chief guest, judge, and speaker at art events and workshops across Pakistan. In addition to her national influence, she has also served on international platforms, including her role on the Global Artist Committee of the Asian Art Association and as a judge for the World Heritage Painting Competition.

Artistic Practice and Themes
Sumera Jawad’s artistic journey spans over three decades, with a focus on female identity and the concept of the Self. Her work explores the layered construction of identity in a multicultural and modern world. Early in her career, she painted realistic portraits and mythological heroines such as Ishtar, Athena, and Kali. Over time, her style evolved into more symbolic and conceptual representations of everyday women. Her recurring “Rose Series” explores themes of femininity, passion, fragility, and regeneration, often depicted through bold colour palettes and emotionally resonant imagery. Recent works have engaged with Buddhist traditions and spiritual feminine presence through graphite drawings and minimalist expressions.

Exhibitions and Recognition
Dr. Sumera Jawad has held over ten solo exhibitions and participated in numerous national and international group shows. Notable exhibitions include “Koi Kuchho Kahay Mann Laaga” at Nomad Art Gallery in Islamabad, “Counter Narrative – Redefining Feminism,” “Insinuation” at Art Scene Gallery in Karachi, and “I Am the Miracle” at ArtSoch Contemporary in Lahore. Her contributions to contemporary art have been acknowledged with several awards, including the Young Painter Award from the Lahore Arts Council.