Transforming Spaces, One Canvas at a Time: Art by Shalimar Studio & Gallery

In a quiet corner of downtown Cary, what was once an old pawn shop now buzzes with creative energy, thanks to Shalimar Waffa. A former ICU nurse who left the medical field to follow her artistic calling, Shalimar’s leap of faith has paid off—her gallery, Art by Shalimar Studio and Gallery, has become a beloved hub of creativity and community engagement.

Since its opening three years ago, Art by Shalimar has grown from a personal hobby into a thriving gallery space, hosting exhibitions, private painting classes, and community-focused events. The gallery’s signature exhibits, which occur one to two times annually, have drawn over 200 visitors each time, cementing the studio as a cultural fixture.

Shalimar’s distinctive art style combines high-quality oils with palette knife techniques, giving her pieces a unique texture that captivates viewers. One reviewer remarked, “Her paintings will make any space beautiful,” reflecting the gallery’s appeal to those seeking custom commissions for home decor.

The gallery’s atmosphere is deliberately welcoming—a space designed to break down the barrier between artist and viewer. “Many galleries can feel intimidating, but Shalimar and her team create a space where you can enjoy art without any pressure,” said a recent visitor. This approach has helped the gallery cultivate strong relationships, even though many of its buyers come from out of state.

Shalimar herself is often found working in the studio, conversing with visitors and making art in real time. One client described her experience: “I gave Shalimar vague ideas about flowers and colors, and somehow she created a painting that blew me away. It’s my favorite piece, and I’ll cherish it forever.”

Beyond the gallery walls, Shalimar actively engages with the community. Her collaborations with local businesses such as Truss Vet and Cary Founded have showcased her commitment to fostering connections. She frequently donates her artwork to charitable causes, raising thousands of dollars for local fundraisers.

This fall, the gallery will host its latest exhibit on November 8-9, followed by live painting at the Downtown Cary Park’s first birthday celebration on November 16. Shalimar’s artistic journey continues to evolve, with adult painting classes also scheduled through the holiday season.

Shalimar’s journey from the ICU to the easel is nothing short of inspiring. “During the pandemic, I was three months pregnant after a long fertility struggle,” Shalimar recalled. “I left healthcare to protect my pregnancy and decided to pursue my lifelong dream earlier than planned.”

Now a mother and full-time artist, Shalimar dedicates herself to creating pieces that tell stories and bring joy to others. A reviewer summed it up perfectly: “We commissioned a piece for our baby’s nursery, and the entire process exceeded our expectations.”

With every stroke of her brush, Shalimar continues to turn dreams into reality—both her own and those of the people she touches through her art. Whether you're looking to commission a custom painting or simply want to immerse yourself in the beauty of the gallery’s collections, Art by Shalimar Studio and Gallery invites you to step inside and experience the transformative power of art.

For more information or to explore upcoming events, visit: www.artbyshalimar.com
Address: 121 E Chatham St, Cary, NC 27511 | Get Directions 

Click here to get tickets to Shalimar’s 2024 Fall Exhibit - Fantastical Escape

Question about the exhibit on November 8-9…