Women’s Day 2025 Special Series : Bridging Science And Art From Microscopes To Masterpieces

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With Women's Day close at hand, conversations around empowerment, breaking barriers, and embracing individuality take center stage. But for some women, these aren't just discussions, they're lived experiences. Jismi Nilan is one such woman.

Women are often asked to choose-between logic and creativity, career and passion, structure and freedom. But what if you didn't have to? A genetic engineer by profession and an artist at heart, Jismi seamlessly blends science and creativity in her life, proving that success doesn't have to fit into a single box.

With an M.Tech in Molecular Medicine and a B.Tech in Genetic Engineering, Jismi has worked extensively in cancer research, antibody expression, and tissue engineering. But beyond the lab, she is also the founder of Naksh Arts, where she creates emotionally resonant digital portraits. Boldsky caught up with her ahead of Women's Day to talk about defying stereotypes, balancing passion with purpose, and the power of storytelling-both in science and in art.

Science And Art : Two Worlds, One Passion

For Jismi, her love for science was sparked during her school days."After finishing 12th grade, I became fascinated by pedigree analysis and genetic disorders in humans, which sparked my interest in genetic engineering. The idea of decoding and manipulating biological systems to improve lives captivated me."

But her passion for art was just as strong. "Science gives me answers, but art gives me meaning.", she points out. "Art has always been my personal sanctuary-a space where emotions take shape and stories come to life. While science gives me structure and a problem-solving mindset, art allows me to express creativity and emotion. Together, they create a balance in my life, where logic and imagination coexist seamlessly."

The DNA Of Art : Identity, Emotion, And Connection

Although her artwork is not directly rooted in genetic engineering, Jismi believes that science and art share a deeper connection. "Both science and art explore identity, evolution, and the essence of human nature. Through my digital portraits, I capture relationships and emotions that define us at a fundamental level, much like genetics does. In a way, my art celebrates the individuality encoded within each person, reflecting the beauty of both science and human experience."

Her ability to merge logic with creativity is what makes her work stand out. Naksh Arts isn't just a platform for digital portraits-it's a space where emotions are immortalized.

The Story Behind 'Naksh Arts'

The name Naksh Arts holds a deeply personal meaning for Jismi. "'Naksh Arts' is inspired by my daughter's name, Naksha, and symbolizes something deeply personal. It represents the idea of preserving cherished memories and emotions through art."

Her tagline, 'Capturing emotions, creating moments,' perfectly reflects what she aims to achieve. "A moment captured is a memory cherished forever. The tagline encapsulates what my work is all about, turning fleeting emotions into timeless pieces that people can hold on to forever."

An Unforgettable Portrait That Healed A Family

Among the many portraits she has created, there is one that stands out as a deeply emotional experience. "A grieving sister reached out with a deeply emotional request. She wanted a portrait that brought together her father, mother, and their newborn daughter, who had tragically passed away long ago."

The story behind the request was heartbreaking. "Her father had been away on duty, eagerly awaiting the day he would finally meet his little girl. But fate had other plans. Just a day before their long-awaited first meeting, she was gone. He returned not to joy, but to an unimaginable loss."

Creating this piece was more than just a commission for Jismi, it was a way to bring solace. "As I worked on the piece, I could feel the weight of their grief, the love that endured despite the heartbreak, and the unspoken emotions woven into every stroke. When they finally received the artwork, their overwhelming tears and gratitude spoke volumes. That moment reaffirmed why I do what I do. Art is more than creating images; it has the power to heal, to bring together what life has separated, and to offer solace where words fall short."

Empowering Women Through Art

Jismi believes that art has always been a powerful tool for self-expression. "Art has long been a powerful tool for self-expression, and for women, it serves as a means to voice emotions, experiences, and perspectives that might otherwise go unheard. Creativity gives women a space to break stereotypes, challenge norms, and carve out identities beyond societal expectations."

Through her art, she hopes to inspire others. "I hope to inspire others to embrace their stories, celebrate emotions, and find strength in vulnerability."

The Harmony Between Science And Art

With the demands of both fields, how does she maintain balance? "Balance is not about choosing one over the other; it is about weaving them together. Both fields demand precision, patience, and creativity, but they also serve as counterbalances. Science is structured and analytical, while art is free-flowing and expressive. Engaging in both allows me to shift perspectives when needed-science grounds me, and art liberates me. It keeps my mind engaged yet flexible, making me feel more complete as an individual."

She sees a future where her passions intersect rather than compete. "I see a future where my passions intersect, perhaps through scientific illustration, biotech-inspired art, or initiatives that merge science communication with creativity. While I don't plan to give up either field entirely, I envision a path where they can coexist meaningfully."

A Message To Women Who Want It All

As a woman working in traditionally male-dominated fields, Jismi has never let societal expectations hold her back. "The future belongs to those who dare to blend passion with purpose", she says. "Although we live in a male-dominated world, I have never personally felt limited by it. I believe it's all about perspective. When you are confident in your abilities and expertise, external barriers lose their power over you. Success comes from self-assurance, persistence, and the willingness to push forward despite challenges."

But she acknowledges that the struggles many women face are real. "It's crucial to support and uplift other women navigating similar paths. Representation matters-seeing more women excel in STEM, the arts, and leadership roles inspires the next generation to dream bigger and aim higher. Every step we take today creates a smoother path for those who follow."

Jismi has this to say to women who have cold feet before taking on unconventional career paths. "Trust in your passions. The world needs more individuals who can think across disciplines, combining creativity with technical expertise and analytical skills. Follow your heart unapologetically, and remember-success doesn't have to look like anyone else's definition."

No More 'Either', It's Time For Both.

Jismi Nilan is living proof that women don't have to choose between science and creativity. Her story highlights the fact that it isn't about fitting into a mold, it's about breaking it.

This isn't just about Women's Day. It's about every day. About women who refuse to be defined by one title. Who create their own intersections. Who prove that they can be everything they want to be.