Painting with Passion

We talk to Palestinian painter Rawan Anani about how she got started and where her work will take her

Tell us about your business – what inspired the idea and when did you start it?
I come from an artistic family; my father is a well-known Palestinian artist. Since childhood, my favourite hobby has been drawing. I started painting in my father’s studio and I learned many techniques and methods of drawing from him. In 2013, I started painting on canvas because I had more free time as my children started school. My husband and my parents encouraged me, and I continued until today.

What are the keys to creating a profitable business?
You need to balance meeting your financial needs while providing a good enough service to create customer loyalty.

What were your biggest business challenges? How did you overcome them?
My biggest challenge was reaching my audience. It wasn’t easy at first, but with time and hard work, I succeeded in reaching many people from all over the world via social media. 

What advice would you give to the younger generation that might want to follow in your footsteps?
Sprint towards the things you are passionate about, regardless of people’s opinions. 

How do you cope with the daily stress of managing your business?
I manage my daily stress by exercising, taking deep breaths, and eating well in order to focus on my work.

How does social media make you feel in general?
Social media had a positive impact on my artwork in 2020/2021 because there was a great interaction between me and my followers, particularly when people were shut in their homes during quarantine. They had more time to browse Instagram, Facebook, and other applications.

What message would you like to give to women out there?
I would like to thank the beautiful, wonderful, charming women out there! Thank you for making life possible, thank you for being so different and strong. The world would never be the same without you. Thank you to Palestinian women especially who symbolise resilience.

If you look back over your life and career, if you were given the opportunity to do anything different would you?
I would not change my career as art is the opportunity to use my creativity daily. I get to see the world in a different way and follow my passion. Any other career would not fulfill my creativity.

What is important to you? 
Health is the most important to me because with good health, you can spend more time with your friends and family, enjoy the love in your life, and follow your passion.

What is your pet peeve?
My pet peeve is probably being late to an appointment, but I don’t have many pet peeves.

What makes you unique?
My creativity. I created my own style of art style that reflects my perspective, my taste, and my Goals.