'Disconnect' Painting

Rawan Ita-Diaz is an internationally recognized Detroit-based creative. Her art is showcased in global exhibitions from NYC to Venice, Italy. She is featured in online and print publications and is awarded the book cover design winner for an international publication. With a Master's Degree from Lawrence Technological University in Architecture & Design, Rawan works in artistic and architectural capacities to represent people with diverse-abilities and create a more inclusive culture. In 2017, she was struck by an SUV while walking across a parking lot and her life was never the same. Rawan's permanent injuries cause her to struggle with mobility and endure pain every day. She fell into depression and needed to find purpose in new circumstances. She discovered a form of therapy through art. To create, Rawan persists through the pain and finds emotional healing while painting. Whether she paints with alcohol ink, watercolor, or acrylic, the art process sends her to a place of safety, relief, and pure bliss. She paints the good, the bad, and the truths of life through what she calls Project TheraPaint, her blog and art business. Rawan's experience with trauma and solitude encouraged her to seek help and in turn, support others. In 2020, she co-founded The Art Spread, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting artists who experience physical, mental, and societal challenges. She represents those who feel lost and helpless, just as she did. Her hope is that people can experience her emotionally evoking paintings and know that they do not endure alone. Rawan's story is told through her artwork throughout the world.