The Dubai-based multidisciplinary artist on the power of storytelling and using art to inspire others.

With a background in interior design and a flourishing career as a multidisciplinary artist, Dubai-based artist Shanu Jaiswal has built a distinctive practice that spans abstract painting, mixed media, murals, furniture restoration and decoupage, united by a belief that art should evoke emotion, tell stories and transform the spaces it inhabits.

Originally from India, Jaiswal's artistic journey began unexpectedly when a canvas she created for her own home sold within hours of being shared online. What started as a personal creative outlet soon evolved into a full-time career, allowing her to channel years of design expertise into a more intimate form of expression.

Today, her richly textured works are sought after for their ability to balance aesthetics with emotion, while her commitment to community initiatives highlights a desire to create impact beyond the canvas. Deeply influenced by Dubai's multicultural creative landscape, Jaiswal continues to push artistic boundaries while remaining guided by authenticity, curiosity and purpose.
We speak to the self-taught artist about finding her creative voice and the power of colour and storytelling.

You began your creative career in interior design before transitioning into the world of art. What inspired that move?

I was always fascinated by the way a space could come alive through the right balance of colour, texture and light. My journey into art was an unexpected one. After building a career in interior design, I realised that while I loved shaping spaces, I was longing for a more personal creative voice.

That voice emerged six years ago when I painted a canvas for my own home in the UAE. Created purely out of instinct and a love for art, it sold within hours of being shared on Instagram and that changed the course of my life. I recognised it as more than a happy coincidence; it was the moment I discovered my true calling.

Today, abstract art is my chosen form of expression. Guided by my background in interior design, I create works that exist in harmony with the spaces around them, pieces that go beyond aesthetics to evoke emotion, tell stories and become an integral part of a home's identity.

What draws you to working across so many different mediums?

I’ve always been drawn to the idea that creativity has no boundaries. Each medium offers a different way to explore ideas and express emotions, and I enjoy moving from one creative form to another.

How do you use colour as a language to communicate emotions and tell stories?

For me, colour is a powerful emotional language that can influence how a piece is felt long before it is understood. I often build my work through layers of colour, much like memories that gradually accumulate and become the foundation of a story.

What themes or ideas do you find yourself returning to most often in your work?

Beyond my signature style of heavily textured artworks, I find myself constantly returning to the idea of emotion, transformation and human connection in each and every project. Whether through abstract paintings, portraits, murals or furniture restoration, I am inspired by the idea of giving new meaning and new life to things. My work is deeply personal, rooted in the belief that art has the power to heal, inspire and bring positive energy into the spaces and lives it touches.

The UAE's creative landscape has evolved significantly over the past decade. What opportunities do you believe the country offers emerging artists today?

What I find most inspiring is that the UAE has become a place where creativity is genuinely celebrated and supported. There is a growing appreciation for art in both public and private spaces, and I believe this creates incredible opportunities for emerging artists to build sustainable creative careers while staying true to their individual style.

As a female entrepreneur and artist, what advice would you give to women looking to build a creative career or turn their passion into a profession?

I would encourage women to trust their inner voice and not be afraid of taking an unconventional path. Turning passion into a profession requires more than talent; it requires courage, consistency and a willingness to step outside your comfort zone. Believe in your talent, even before the world does, and don't wait for the perfect moment or someone else's validation to begin with.

Your involvement in community initiatives and charity projects highlights the social impact of art. Why is it important for you to use your creativity to give back?

I am driven not only by a love of creating art, but also by a deeper sense of responsibility to share this innate gift with others. For me, creativity is not something to be kept to oneself, it is meant to inspire, teach and create a positive impact. Through community initiatives and charity projects, I hope to use art as a force for compassion and connection, bringing people together through shared experiences and stories.

Looking ahead, what would you still like to achieve as an artist?

Going forward, I hope to continue pushing my creative boundaries through larger public and private art projects globally, as well as meaningful collaborations with inspiring brands and designers. I am equally passionate about building a strong creative identity that authentically reflects my artistic journey and connects with people beyond my artwork.

Tell us about you as a woman and what you like to do when you’re not working?

I’m deeply passionate about fitness, well-being and living a balanced, intentional life. I believe in nurturing self-love, investing in personal growth and creating space for both mind and body to thrive.

If there is one message you hope your journey communicates to other women, artists and aspiring creatives, what would it be?

Sometimes the most extraordinary journeys begin with the courage to take a single step.