Almost 30 women from all walks of life came together in Sydney on Sunday 11 May 2025 for an afternoon of painting, laughter and connection at Dar-ul-Islam in Bonnyrigg, part of a series of Mind, Body & Soul women’s retreats hosted by Seena Incorporated.
Surrounded by vibrant floral arrangements, the participants, from a diverse range of background, ages and professions, including some newly arrived migrants from Gaza enjoyed the Canvas & Colours painting workshop, with a focus on the therapeutic benefits of painting.
Guests were warmly welcomed with delicious Lebanese refreshments catered by Ja’dore Kitchen. As they mingled and introduced themselves, a sense of excitement filled the room in anticipation of the creative experience to come.
The painting space was beautifully transformed, with canvases, easels, and paint sets arranged along a long boardroom table adorned with fresh flowers in rustic soil-filled buckets in the centre.
Mrs Mehar Ahmad opened the session with recitation of Quran, Surah Al-Fatiha and an Acknowledgment of Country, respectfully stating, “This land was, is and always will be Aboriginal land.”
She also reflected on the significance of the subject of the painting — the Dome of the Rock — a revered site next to Masjid Aqsa, located on Palestinian land.
Mrs Ahmad introduced Seena Inc as a nonprofit organisation that focuses on women, people with disability, and multicultural storytelling through its community platform.
She shared the purpose of the workshop: to offer women a space to unwind, be present, and experience calm. “When we paint, we’re anchored in the moment — away from worries, away from noise — focused just on the colours in front of us.”
She then welcomed Mariam Rababe of Mirror Cool Art, joined by her young assistant and nephew.
Mariam shared her own journey of healing through art. A self-taught artist, she has since turned her passion into a thriving business and opened her own art studio in Birrong, NSW.
With attendees from diverse cultural backgrounds — including Indian, Pakistani, Cambodian, Lebanese, and recent arrivals from Gaza, Palestine — Mariam conducted the workshop in both English and Arabic, ensuring everyone felt welcomed, included, and supported.
The day’s reference piece was a striking image of the Dome of the Rock, situated at the heart of Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in the Old City of Jerusalem — a site sacred to many and close to our hearts.
Though the subject seemed intimidating at first, Mariam reassured attendees that they were capable.
“I want you to show yourself on the canvas,” she said.
With patience and encouragement, she guided them through each stage — from outlining the dome to layering the rich colours of the sky, structure and foliage.
The room shifted between moments of focused stillness and bursts of laughter, chatter and shared joy, with breaks for Asr and Maghreb prayer.
The workshop left many attendees feeling uplifted and inspired. One participant shared,
“I was pleasantly surprised with how much I enjoyed the afternoon painting, reconnecting with myself in the process and all the lovely sisters. Thank you to Mehar and her daughters for the wonderful hospitality, and Mariam — an amazing painter and teacher.”
Another added,
“Thank you Seena for an amazing event. Well organised and welcoming — and the Mother’s Day treat and flower gifts were so lovely. I’m so glad I could attend. Thank you to the hosts, the artist, and for the lovely atmosphere and location. Much appreciated all your hard work and the very yummy food! I’ve already hung up my art at home.”
One senior attendee even shared that this was her first time painting — and her canvas was beautiful.
Despite everyone working from the same reference, each painting turned out uniquely, reflecting each artist’s individual style, emotion, and story.
As the sun set, the evening concluded with a heartfelt thank you from Mrs Ahmad.
Each participant was invited to take home one of the potted flower plants — a symbol of growth, beauty and self-care. A gift of flowers were also presented to Mariam in appreciation of her contribution.
Seena Inc looks forward to hosting more events like this, continuing to create safe and empowering spaces for women.
Follow them on Instagram: @seenainc
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