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

How Magic Moment Resort Became the Pioneer of a New Era: The First-Ever Dazzler Select by Wyndham

Published

23 hours ago

November 25, 2025

Michelle Langton

In Central Florida’s packed landscape of family hotels and theme park lodgings, a unique kind of property has emerged. Magic Moment Resort & Kids Club in Orlando is earning attention from traveling families for a simple reason. It delivers joy, warmth, and convenience at a smart value that keeps Disney dreams accessible rather than overwhelming.

By joining Wyndham, Magic Moment Resort unlocks the strength of a global powerhouse, gaining worldwide visibility, advanced technology, and access to Wyndham Rewards, the largest hotel loyalty program on the planet. This strategic move expands its reach, builds guest trust, and amplifies its impact, all while preserving the unique identity that sets it apart.

Just a short drive from the gates of Walt Disney World, the resort sits along the palm-framed stretch of West Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway. The location has long been known for its tourism bustle, yet Magic Moment has carved out a softer identity. It feels playful and colorful, but also intentional. It is designed by a family for other families, and that perspective shapes every experience on the property.

A Philosophy Rooted in Family Connection

Magic Moment Resort was built with a belief often forgotten in today’s tourism industry. Family vacations should feel uplifting instead of stressful, and affordability should not come at the expense of comfort or creativity.

Check-in feels more personal than transactional. Parents arrive with strollers, snacks, and tired children. The staff seems to understand this rhythm instinctively. The energy is warm, the pace is easy, and the tone is set long before anyone even enters the room.

Unlike competing hotels that charge a steep premium for proximity to the parks, Magic Moment focuses on smart value without compromise. Its pricing strategy is refreshingly straightforward. Families can stay five minutes from Disney without draining their travel budgets. For many guests, that difference helps shift resources from hotel costs to experiences. It means more character breakfasts, more souvenirs, and more freedom to enjoy the parks without financial tension following every decision.

Spaces Designed for Children and Considerate of Parents

Magic Moment is filled with color, but nothing feels overstimulating. Instead, the resort offers a sense of wonder scaled to a child’s imagination.

The themed family rooms are a highlight. Children step into rooms that feel lighthearted and whimsical, yet parents appreciate that they are also functional and comfortable. It is the atmosphere of a themed suite without the theme park price.

Its Kids Club and Teens Club reflect that same thoughtful balance. These spaces invite exploration and creativity for children and provide a nurturing level of supervision. Parents can enjoy an hour by the heated pool, relax in a shaded cabana, or simply take a quiet moment while knowing their children are safe and engaged.

The resort’s grounds encourage slow mornings and gentle afternoons.There’s a 30,000 sqf outdoor playground as well as peaceful corners for parents. Importantly, families are not asked to pay additional fees to enjoy them. Magic Moment’s amenities feel generous rather than transactional.

Unforgettable Days at the Parks

For families navigating a Disney vacation, convenience is often the true luxury. Magic Moment delivers this with a complimentary delicious hot breakfast that encourages everyone to sit and enjoy the start of the day rather than rush through it.

Transportation to the parks is included, which removes one of the most common stress points for visiting families. There is no parking lot maze and no long lines at the toll booths. Guests simply board the shuttle and begin their day with ease.

When the sun sets and everyone returns from a day of rides and parades, the resort becomes a place to unwind. Children head straight for the pool. Parents sip Starbucks coffee. The atmosphere is relaxed and bright, and the resort feels like an extension of the Disney experience rather than a pause from it.

A Value That Resonates with Families

What truly elevates Magic Moment is the balance it achieves between smart value and experience. The resort has cultivated a loyal following because guests feel they receive more than they pay for. More thoughtful design. More space for connection. More comfort without excess.

Affordability here does not signal minimalism. Instead, it allows families to breathe. It creates space for shared moments that are often overlooked in the rush of theme-park vacations. Children play freely. Parents unwind without guilt. Families spend more time together and less time navigating logistics.

A Resort Built with Heart

Magic Moment Resort & Kids Club stands out in a region overflowing with hospitality options. Its charm is not rooted in extravagance. It is grounded in sincerity. It reflects the belief that family travel should feel joyful, accessible, and full of color.

For families planning a Disney visit, it represents more than a place to sleep. It is a retreat where memories can form in the quiet moments as much as in the thrilling ones.

At Magic Moment, the greatest luxury is not an amenity. It is the feeling of being exactly where you are meant to be, together.