Irena Roman

Irena Roman is a Professor of Illustration at Massachusetts College of Art and Design (MassArt), specializing in transparent watercolor. With over 30 years of experience, she transitioned from freelance illustration—working with clients like The New Yorker and Harper Collins—to fine art. Her work emphasizes luminous still-life and figurative portraiture, exploring themes of timelessness and light.

Education: BFA from Massachusetts College of Art and Design; MFA from Syracuse University.

Research interests include the intersection of watercolor techniques with narrative storytelling, focusing on ethereal imagery and the transformation of ordinary subjects through light. Her exhibitions include solo shows like Second Wind (Art Complex Museum, 2018) and group exhibitions internationally. Awards include the American Watercolor Society Dolphin Fellowship, multiple medals from the New England Watercolor Society, and inclusion in Creative Quarterly's 100 Best of 2018.

She has conducted workshops at institutions such as the Norman Rockwell Museum and Gibson House B&B, focusing on watercolor techniques and observational drawing. Her work is part of prestigious collections including the Norman Rockwell Museum and Toray, Inc. (Tokyo).