Lifestyle

Sink or Swim; Renowned Artist Fatma Al Shebani’s Early Work in Painting

Published

3 years ago

June 29, 2022

In life, one truly has just two options. Sink or swim. Most would like to think they would swim and yet most end up sinking, stuck in a place they never really intended to be. After being trapped by societal standards and traditions, contemporary artist Fatma Al Shebani chose to swim. With that choice, she placed herself in society’s line of fire and opened herself up to the art world’s criticism. She rebelled, broke barriers, and made a name for herself.

For over 15 years she has reached people across the world with her art. From Qatar to the Western world and to Palestine, there remains little doubt that she has left a significant impact and solidified her place in the art world. The unique style and voice behind her paintings and sculptures have allowed her to stand out. Every piece she creates retains a piece of herself through the story she aims to construct. Still, much like anything worthwhile, she traveled a long and winding road to accomplish all that she has.

Art always constituted a major part of Shebani’s life. From a young age, she painted and wrote poetry. Her pursuit of higher education at Qatar University also centered around art. Shebani claims that her studying art at university was a pure coincidence, but it nevertheless demonstrates her deep connection with the craft. Art was, perhaps, ingrained in her. The need to create has seemingly always flowed through her veins and intertwined with her soul. Even without consciously deciding to pursue a career as a professional artist, Shebani found herself drawn to the creation of art.

As time went on, Shebani’s life took slight detours. She married and started a family. Shebani had no intention of becoming an artist, but she still created and joined group exhibitions. Her separation from her husband in 2003 pushed her to rediscover herself and recalibrate her professional goals. After attaining freedom and deciding to pursue this creative passion, in spite of the views of those around her, she began to truly shine and find her voice. She separated herself from the crowd and carved out a space in which she now expresses herself, however she pleases.

Every artist has a start, Fatma Al Shebani’s journey – like many– began with painting. Now, she is well known for her metal work and sculptures, pieces that bridge traditional and modern Qatari culture. Her paintings, however, from her own perspective hold equal weight in her portfolio. Shebani’s paintings are often seen as unconventional. She broke the rules of art much like she broke the many conventions placed on her by society. Through painting, she explores the abstract, while also experimenting with color and texture. She allows her free spirit and curiosity to guide her in creating, which results in dynamic pieces that captivate audiences as they carefully explore every inch of the canvas. Her sculptures tell a story, but her paintings reveal layers of her ‘true self’.

In every one of Shebani’s paintings, it is difficult to know exactly where to look first. The paint itself acts to guide the viewer, drawing their eyes to certain parts as though they move through a world of Shebani’s creation. The broad range of colors used in each piece only adds to the creation. Often, the color schemes she employs consist of gentle hues, both warm and cool, but, on occasion, her work makes use of bright, eye-catching, contrasted colors. Shebani demonstrates breadth solely through the many different color combinations she utilizes. Her experimentation with color reflects her own constant personal evolution and willingness to embrace change. Every piece is different and reflects a different aspect of her identity.

Like color, texture and dimension play a major role in her painting process. When one thinks of paintings on canvas it can be difficult to imagine anything other than a 2D piece of art. Shebani breaks that boundary through exaggerated texture. There is a certain depth and physicality to the art she creates. Once again, she shifts from typical conventions in order to bring something new to her audience. She does not shy away from being different and creating something ‘unusual’. Instead, she embraces her defiant nature, going against the grain and doing so masterfully

Shebani once floated idly, slowly sinking into a life that never suited her. Eventually, she dived deep into the oceans of the art world and took control of her narrative. Her start was slow, but once she recognized her true calling, her art began to shine in new and exciting ways. At first glance, her abstract art may seem purely aesthetic in value, however, when one takes into consideration the personality behind the work, the disparate dimensions of the artist become apparent.

Lifestyle

Houseplant Styling Mistakes to Avoid in Home Décor

Published

7 hours ago

November 16, 2025

Michelle Langton

Bringing greenery indoors can instantly elevate a space — adding warmth, texture, and a sense of calm. However, styling houseplants successfully requires more than simply popping a fern in a corner and hoping for the best. From mismatched plant selections to poor placement and neglecting scale, even the most well-intentioned plant lovers can make styling missteps. Before you dive into your next indoor plant arrangement, it’s worth understanding the most common mistakes to avoid.

Whether you’re new to indoor greenery or a seasoned plant parent, brands like Hello Botanical make it easy to find the perfect plants and gifts that complement your interior style — but knowing how to display them properly will make all the difference.

Overcrowding Your Space with Too Many Plants
While it’s tempting to fill every available surface with greenery, too many plants can make your space feel cluttered and overwhelming. Each plant deserves breathing room to grow and be appreciated. Instead of bunching them together, try grouping a few in varying heights or textures for balance. A single large plant in a corner can make a stronger design statement than ten small ones scattered everywhere.

Ignoring Light Conditions
Aesthetics shouldn’t be your only consideration when placing plants. Many indoor plant styling mistakes stem from ignoring light needs. Some species, like fiddle leaf figs and succulents, crave bright indirect light, while others, such as snake plants or peace lilies, thrive in low-light corners. Assess the natural light in each room before choosing plants, and remember that not every green beauty will thrive on your coffee table or bathroom shelf.

Choosing the Wrong Pot or Planter
A pot isn’t just a decorative accessory — it affects your plant’s health and your home’s design balance. A mismatched or undersized pot can look awkward, while one without drainage can cause root rot. Select planters that complement your home’s aesthetic and suit each plant’s needs. Neutral ceramics, woven baskets, or textured terracotta pots can enhance the overall décor while allowing your greenery to shine.

Neglecting Scale and Proportion
One of the easiest ways to make a room look unbalanced is by ignoring scale. A tiny plant on a large table can feel lost, while an oversized monstera can overwhelm a small living room. Consider the proportions of your furniture and space before selecting plants. Taller plants like palms or rubber trees add height and drama, while trailing species such as pothos or string of pearls can soften shelves and hanging corners beautifully.

Forgetting to Mix Textures and Colours
Just as you’d layer textures and tones in your furnishings, apply the same principle to your plant styling. Combining different leaf shapes, shades of green, and plant structures creates visual interest. Pair glossy leaves with matte ones, upright plants with cascading varieties, and bold tropicals with delicate ferns. A well-curated mix feels intentional rather than chaotic.

Over-Decorating Around Your Plants
Plants are statement-makers in their own right. Surrounding them with too many decorative objects — candles, vases, or trinkets — can detract from their natural beauty. Let the greenery breathe and become a focal point. A simple setup often feels more elegant and modern than a crowded display.

Forgetting Functionality in Key Spaces
While plants bring undeniable style, practicality matters too. Avoid placing trailing vines where they’ll get tangled in workspace cords or near entryways where they can be knocked over. Similarly, keep moisture-loving plants away from electronics and ensure any planters with drainage are placed on trays to protect your floors and furniture.

Ignoring Consistency Across Your Home
Houseplants look their best when they contribute to a cohesive theme. Instead of choosing random species for each room, think about your home’s overall design. Are you going for a minimalist, Scandinavian aesthetic or something more lush and tropical? Repeating a few plant types or pot styles throughout creates unity and flow.

Overlooking Plant Care as Part of the Design
No matter how beautifully you style your plants, unhealthy or neglected greenery can spoil the look. Regular pruning, wiping leaves, and rotating pots to ensure even growth are key parts of maintaining your interior aesthetic. Healthy, thriving plants add vibrancy and life that no artificial décor can replicate.

Forgetting That Less Can Be More
Finally, remember that plants should enhance your décor, not dominate it. A few strategically placed, well-cared-for plants can transform a home far more effectively than a jungle of mismatched greenery. Focus on quality over quantity, and choose each plant intentionally to fit your style, lighting, and lifestyle.

When styled thoughtfully, houseplants can turn a space into a peaceful, inviting sanctuary

Avoiding these common mistakes helps you highlight their beauty while keeping your interiors cohesive and clutter-free. Whether you’re refreshing a single room or curating a lush indoor garden, start small, observe what works, and grow your collection with care.