Dubai-based artist and art therapist Leena Thawrani has dedicated her career to transforming spaces and lives through art. From crafting bespoke pieces for luxury hotels to integrating creativity into corporate wellness programs, she merges artistic expression with emotional well-being. In this exclusive feature, she shares her journey, insights on the power of art, and how she is making a lasting impact on the UAE’s corporate and wellness landscape.
The Beginning of My Artistic Journey
Art has always been my sanctuary, a way to communicate emotions beyond words. My professional journey started over a decade ago when I took the leap to rent a small space and display my work. That bold step paved the way for commissions from hotels, corporate clients, and private collectors. As I progressed, I realized art was more than a visual experience—it had the power to heal, connect, and inspire. This realization led me to expand my practice into art therapy and coaching, helping individuals and businesses integrate creativity into wellness programs.
The Role of Art in Luxury & Corporate Spaces
Art is more than decoration—it’s an experience. In luxury hotels, it enhances ambiance, tells a story, and immerses guests in culture. In corporate environments, it influences mood, boosts productivity, and fosters creativity. Studies confirm that thoughtfully designed workspaces improve employee satisfaction and engagement, which is why I conduct art therapy workshops for organizations. These sessions encourage self-expression, reduce stress, and unlock creative potential among teams.
Merging Art with Corporate Wellness
High-pressure work environments often lead to stress, creative blocks, and emotional fatigue. Art provides a therapeutic, non-verbal outlet for emotions. One of my most impactful corporate workshops involved a “Tree of Life” exercise, where employees added thumbprints symbolizing growth and teamwork. The process fostered deep reflection, engagement, and mindfulness. Art creates a safe space for self-expression, strengthening emotional intelligence and well-being.
Growing Up in Dubai & Its Influence on My Art
Dubai is my home and my muse. The city’s rich blend of cultures, architecture, and traditions have shaped my artistic identity. I am deeply inspired by the elegance of Emirati women, the fluidity of Arabic calligraphy, and the vibrancy of souks. My work fuses these traditional elements with a contemporary perspective, creating pieces that feel both nostalgic and modern.
The Emotional Connection in My Art
Every piece I create is meant to evoke a connection—whether it’s nostalgia, admiration, or pride. I want viewers to feel a sense of belonging, culture, and shared stories when they see my art. My paintings, often featuring Emirati women, celebrate their quiet strength, confidence, and deep-rooted heritage.
Blending Creativity with Healing in My Workshops
My workshops are a fusion of art, mindfulness, and sound therapy. Participants engage in breathwork, meditation, and sound healing before painting, allowing them to create intuitively and express emotions they may not even realize they hold. When working with Alzheimer’s patients, art helps unlock memories, while sessions for people of determination emphasize self-expression and confidence building. Art truly is a universal language beyond physical and cognitive limitations.
The Thriving UAE Art Scene
Dubai’s art scene is dynamic and ever-evolving, offering opportunities for every artistic voice. With a growing emphasis on mental wellness, I see an increasing alignment between my vision and the city’s cultural and corporate landscape. This inspires me to continue using art as a transformative tool in personal and professional spaces.
Future Endeavors
Currently, I am working on a digital art collection for a luxury hotel, each piece reflecting local culture and spirituality. On the corporate front, I am expanding my wellness programs to help businesses foster creativity and emotional well-being among employees. My broader mission is to make art accessible—whether through customized paintings, interactive workshops, or personalized coaching sessions that reconnect individuals with their artistic side.
Advice for Emerging Artists & Entrepreneurs
- Stay true to your artistic identity while remaining open to new opportunities.
- Expand beyond traditional art sales—explore collaborations, workshops, and corporate projects.
- Build your network and visibility—social media and word-of-mouth are invaluable.
- Understand your worth—pricing your work sustainably is key to long-term success.
“An artist doesn’t just create art—they weave emotions, tell stories, and pour a piece of their soul onto every canvas.” 🎨✨ – Leena Thawrani
From Passion to Business: The Art of Success
Turning my passion into a thriving business didn’t happen overnight. I started by showcasing my art at local exhibitions, networking with designers, and gradually building my brand. Over time, I realized that my work could elevate spaces, leading to collaborations with hotels, restaurants, and collectors.
Overcoming Challenges as an Artist in Dubai
Standing out in Dubai’s competitive art scene is a challenge. The key is storytelling—making your work deeply personal yet universally relatable. By drawing from local culture while presenting it in a fresh, contemporary way, I have been able to create meaningful connections with audiences.
Advice for Aspiring Artists
- Authenticity is everything—your story is your brand.
- Stay visible—network, leverage social media, and constantly evolve your craft.
- Believe in yourself—if you don’t value your work, no one else will.
“Art isn’t just something you see—it’s an experience that transforms spaces, stirs emotions, and bridges the gap between people and their surroundings.” – Leena Thawrani