An Inspired Chat with Rawan Ita-Diaz of Detroit

We’re looking forward to introducing you to Rawan Ita-Diaz. Check out our conversation below.

Hi Rawan, thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: What is a normal day like for you right now?
As a mother, wife, artist, and business owner, my days are a blend of family, creativity, and productivity. My mornings usually start with breakfast with my daughter, who helps me prepare my husband’s coffee and feed our dog, Mando. If the Midwest weather allows, I like to take an hour-long walk around the neighborhood to clear my head and mentally prepare for the day ahead.

Midday, during baby girl’s nap, is my dedicated worktime. I use this quiet period to focus on administrative tasks, create social media content, answer emails, and plan projects until it’s time to prep dinner. Evenings are family time, filled with fun and a bit of chaos until around 8 pm.

Afterwards, my nights are devoted to either meetings for The Art Spread, painting in my studio to build my latest collection, or catching up on small tasks like folding laundry and doing some nighttime sketches. Regardless of the task, I make it a priority to block time for both my art practice and business, keeping my creative flow alive and nourished.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My journey with art began in the most unexpected way. Born in Iraq, my family and I came to the U.S. as refugees, seeking safety and a new beginning. Thanks to my parents’ sacrifices, I was able to pursue my dreams and build a career in architecture. But after a life-changing accident, I struggled to find my place in the corporate design world as my body required care and healing. I lost my sense of purpose—but through painting, I found a path to recovery. What began as therapy soon became a calling.

In 2017, I created Project TheraPaint, which eventually inspired me to start The Art Spread. Today, The Art Spread is a space where I get to support artists, build a creative community, and make art accessible to everyone. Every day, I’m grateful to blend my love for design, storytelling, and creativity to transform communities through art.

Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
The relationship that most shapes how I see myself is my relationship with Jesus. He loved me enough to die for me, for my salvation. Despite my sins, my anger, my selfishness, and my shame, He reminds me that I am worthy of love. Through Him, I not only see myself as a beloved daughter of God but also learn how to love and care for others. His life serves as an example in my roles as a mother, wife, and business owner. Through Him, I learn how to love others compassion, patience, and grace. Of course, I fall short at times, but those moments drive me to grow in every relationship. This perspective also deeply influences how I lead The Art Spread community and fuels my passion for ensuring that everyone in our community feels seen, heard, and cared for.

Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
In 2017, I lost everything I had worked for. A traumatic accident left me emotionally shattered and physically limited. My career, my relationships, and my sense of purpose all fell apart. I felt like I had to start over with no blueprint for where to go or who to be next. In that darkness, I realized I had to create my own map and a new way forward. I turned to art as a way to heal, and with each painting, I found a little more strength, clarity, and purpose. What began as a way to survive eventually became the foundation for a new chapter of my life. Through it all, my faith and family kept me hopeful and strong enough to make sure I never gave up.

Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. Is the public version of you the real you?
Yes, the public version of me is the real me – the good, the bad, and everything in between. I’ve learned that we’re all carrying burdens in one way or another, and while it can feel vulnerable to share that openly, it’s what connects us. Sharing my story reminds others that they’re not alone. Being real is part of my mission as an artist, and I believe that authenticity is what allows people to connect so deeply with my work.

Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
I truly feel that I’m doing what I was born to do. Creating art that tells real stories – the good, the bad, and the truths of life feels like a calling, not a choice. Through The Art Spread, I get to build a community of talented and diverse creatives and help them share their stories with the world. It has been exceptionally fulfilling to use my gifts to uplift others and create accessible spaces where art and authenticity can thrive.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://theartspread.org/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.art.spread/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-art-spread-2021/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheArtSpread
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@theartspread3815