15th edition of Project Art hosts Dubai-based artist Shanu Jaiswal
16 Sep 2023
A Shanu Jaiswal abstract blazes in a room.
Muhammad Yusuf, Features Writer
Zabeel House by Jumeirah, The Greens, has announced the 15th edition of Project Art; it features the talent of Shanu Jaiswal (Sept. 14 – 22). Jaiswal is a Dubai-based abstract artist who is bringing her creativity to life in the hotel lobby. Her favourite pieces, along with live on-site creations, are on display, inviting art enthusiasts to immerse themselves in a world of captivating colours and emotions. Jaiswal is a self-taught talent, originally from India. With a background in interior design, she has journeyed into the realm of art, mastering diverse styles such as decoupage art, mixed media canvasses, wall murals, and her recent choice, working with chalk paints. She describes her creative process as cathartic, allowing her emotions to spill onto the canvas in a kind of release. Catharsis is from the ancient Greek word ‘katharsis’, meaning “purification” or “cleansing”. It is most commonly used now to refer to the purification and purgation of thoughts and emotions, and to a resulting emotional state that results in renewal and restoration.
Jaiswal is internally driven, emotionally charged, and is also an art educator. Additionally, she is a qualified interior designer, with experience both in India and UAE. She has crafted her journey as an artist by creating some unique styles in a range of painting, colour and restoration techniques. She also transforms a plain piece of furniture into a trending ‘shabby chic’ look. The creative process for her is one that is both emotional and automatic.
In the past, she has showcased her work at various prestigious events, including solo exhibitions at renowned outlets including Pottery Barn and West Elm stores in Dubai Mall where, according to her, she received “fabulous response”. “I am a fan of design, arts, and painting,” she says. “I’m also interested in DIY and innovation.” At one place in her Instagram account, she says the following: “Past few months have been really exciting in terms of learning and exploring new dimensions of art!! I went few steps away from my comfort zone and challenged my own capabilities …
Blessed to be able to create new connections and stories through my art …”“I am passionate about creating original abstract artworks, wall murals and furniture makeovers,” she notes. “I also conduct art workshops for kids and adults.
Shanu Jaiswal is based in Dubai.
I got to collaborate with interior designers and work for their dream projects: villas, restaurants, coffee shops and offices! Nothing can stop me saying that I am blessed to have worked on such diversified creative jobs and every time I create a new milestone for myself!!” Not only is Jaiswal an artist but she is also someone compassionately dedicated to social initiatives and charity programmes. She believes in uplifting the underprivileged, especially community workers and labourers, by using art as a means to bring joy into their lives. Her involvement in the Ramadan Sharing Fridge Art Initiative (RSFAI), where she painted fridges for two consecutive years, is a testament to her commitment to social causes.
Marcus Sutton, General Manager of Zabeel House by Jumeirah, The Greens, said that “we’re thrilled to host Shanu Jaiswal for the 15th edition of Project Art. At Zabeel House, we believe in fostering creativity and providing a space for artists to showcase their talents. This initiative aligns perfectly with our commitment to promoting local art and culture.” Project Art offers a platform for Dubai’s most talented artists to unveil their creations to a diverse audience, in the interest of art and art education. The lobby area of Zabeel House, with a bustling co-working atmosphere and communal vibe (as frequent visitors would have noticed), provides the encouraging backdrop for creativity to flourish.
Jaiswal is hosting a live art session on September 21, where guests can look into her art process, experience the way art is brought to life, ask questions on her life as art maker and purchase her artwork. For local artists aspiring to participate in future Project Art endeavours, registration of interest can be done by contacting Zabeel House by Jumeirah, The Greens, at 04 519 1111. Zabeel House by Jumeirah, The Greens, is an eclectic hotel located in the heart of the vibrant neighbourhood of The Greens. “High on design, low on complexity, the hotel offers brilliant basics and unexpected extras,” it says. “Set in an upscale, casual environment, guests can also expect a touch of the instinctive hospitality that has become second nature from the creators of the Burj Al Arab Jumeirah.”
Located in Onyx Tower 3 in the Greens, the hotel sits shares space with ‘social Dubai’. Slightly off the tourist trail, it is a proven mid-way stop between popular areas such as Dubai Marina and JLT, right on the cusp of Sheikh Zayed Road; Dubai Media City is just a skip away. The Onyx project was developed by Ishraqah for Development, a leading UAE developer which has been established as a result of a strategic alliance between Al Zahran Group and Bin Mahfouz Group, two prominent business groups in the Gulf region. Ishraqah and its sister companies have a portfolio of real estate developments and investments worth over Dhs5 billion spread across the UAE, KSA and other international markets.