An Interview With Leena Kewlani – an abstract impressionist, with a mission on positivity

Leena Kewlani is a Dubai-based Abstract Impressionist who channels positivity and good vibes through her artworks. Born in Sierra Leone and of Indian descent, a well-travelled Kewlani considers each experience of painting a memorable journey deep into her soul where she finds the positive touch she adds into the world with her palette knives.

Who is Leena?

I am of Indian origin and I was born in a very small country on the west coast of Africa called Sierra Leone. My entire childhood was spent between Freetown and Monrovia (Liberia) – climbing trees, playing football barefoot, building sand castles on the beach, and creating imaginary worlds with Lego. I moved to Dubai (UAE) when I was 11-years-old. Here I truly experienced how a city can give a second home to a child who has left the only land she ever knew, and give opportunities to women to excel in their education and careers. Surrounded by various nationalities, race and religions, I grew up with people from all walks of life. Between the two countries is where “Leena” emerged.

How and why did you start creating and making art?

My mom realized that the only way I could express everything I felt was through painting. I was always drawing or scribbling or creating something when I was a kid, and my mom finally pushed me to join a freelancing art teacher after I drew a picture of the Hindu Goddess Laxmi from a Diwali greeting card. And that changed my life.

What has been the greatest challenge you’ve faced as an artist?

Honestly, I have been very blessed in life, but the greatest hardship for me was in 2014 when I lost control of my hands when I damaged the tendons. I was unable to hold a pen, let alone a paintbrush. I would drop things without realizing, and the pain in my hands was severe. I had doctors tell me that the condition is permanent. Luckily, I found a chiropractor who worked with me and my hands. Thankfully, I now have my hands back, and along with it, a new style of painting that defined my artworks.

Want to view more of Leena Kewlani art? Connect with her on her Instagram using the handle – @leenakewlani.art