A Q&A with Pittsburgh artist Natiq Jalil
In loving memory of Natiq Jalil, who passed away on November 26, 2022.
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Driven by purpose, self-taught visual artist Natiq Jalil creates impactful pieces most often highlighting the strength of Black people, challenging racial, societal, and gender norms. His mixed-media art, with an emphasis on watercolor, has been displayed in countless venues and galleries in multiple cities, many he’s traveled or lived in. Locally, you can find his work at Redfishbowl Studios, The Ohringer, and in the Cultural District.
Natiq Jalil paints a mural in Redfishbowl Studios. Photo by Mike Schwarz.
Natiq has been part of murals on the Black experience and is the founder of The Coloured Section Black Artists’ Collective, a brainchild of the late artist and Natiq’s mentor George Gist, that are on display at 820 Liberty Ave. downtown.
He and his wife Crystal Noel Jalil, who is a jewelry maker and spoken-word poet, work together on ventures throughout Pittsburgh and host “Amplified,” a monthly open mic and live art series at The Ohringer in Braddock.
On top of being a notable visual artist, Natiq spends time writing poetry, sci-fi and crafting jewelry – like his signature faux gauges (or gauges that don’t stretch your ears).
I had the honor of chatting with Natiq, who is also a friend, about his creative journey and life as an artist.