Today we’d like to introduce you to Rawan Ita-Diaz.
Hi Rawan, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My story began in 2017 with a tragic and life-altering experience. As I was walking into work, I was hit by an SUV. Instantly, my world changed. My life became mostly about doctor visits, insurance disputes, and therapy appointments. My social life ended long before the Pandemic began and at that time, there wasn’t as much of a virtual world as what we have now. It was just me in my own space trying to cope with pain and trauma. It was an excruciating and isolating time in my life and I’ve never been the same since physically or mentally.
I began to lean on painting to help me get through the loneliness and depression I felt. And after a while, painting became more than just an escape for me. It became my joy. I express the good, the bad, and the truth of trauma through my art blog, Project Thera Paint. The painting brought a sense of purpose back into my life. It also served as a form of therapy for my anxiety, fear, and depression.
Early in my art journey, my work caught the attention of local and international art groups. I’ve had the pleasure of showcasing my work in influential cities and creating meaningful art for patrons around the world.
The more I shared my art journey with people, the more I realized the need for therapeutic art practices. I knew I had to share art’s impact with the world so, in 2020, I co-founded a nonprofit called The Art Spread. At The Art Spread, we give to others what I realized I needed during my recovery – camaraderie and a safe outlet. So, we built a supportive art community for everyone experiencing mental, physical, and societal challenges.
My story began with pain and loneliness, but it has evolved into a story of inspiration and support. I use my experiences to encourage others to find solace in art.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The road to being an art-preneur has definitely not been a smooth one! Sometimes I laugh about it but in all honesty, the art world is a complex industry to be in. As an artist, I also must play the roles of marketing agent, graphic designer, analytics specialist, photographer, social media guru, and do all the things necessary to not only create art but also put it out into the world. Sometimes, I fall behind and doubt myself. As that happens, God sends me a sign of encouragement through a friend, follower, or patron that inspires me to keep doing the work I do.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
My work expresses the truth behind trauma. Naturally, I am a very shy person so expressing my vulnerabilities on the canvas has allowed me to open up to the world. Through my paintings, I convey the reality of living with mental and physical challenges. Painting is the way I communicate the good, the bad, and the truth of my life. A painting like ‘Shiver’ represents the relationship I have with PTSD. In contrast, a painting like ‘Heaven Has Answers’ expresses endless possibilities, hope, and faithfulness in what’s to come.
Any big plans?
My goals for Project Thera Paint are quite simple. I want people to know that they can come to my art blog or Instagram page to find raw inspiration. I look forward to forming bonds with more and more patrons. When someone collects my art, I know they will be encouraged by the message behind it.
I plan on creating more works of art that encourage others who were in my position. Experiencing first-hand the therapeutic power of art, I feel obliged to share about creative coping outlets. Through The Art Spread, I’ve seen this dream come to life during the art-and-adversity awareness workshops.
Follow my art journey at @Project.Thera Paint to see more of what’s to come!
Pricing:
- Original Watercolor Paintings on Paper : $100 – $150
- Original Acrylic Paintings on Canvas : $150 – $4k
- Original Alcohol Ink Paintings on Yupo : $125 – $150
- Fine Art Prints : $50
- Commissioned Artwork : $$ – $$$$
Contact Info:
- Email: rita@ProjectTheraPaint.com
- Website: ProjectTheraPaint.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/project.therapaint/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSURffi29YHJYofgARpUXiQ
- Other: https://theartspread.org/
