Freedom of expression is the cornerstone of this painter’s artwork

AMMAN — Before establishing her R.F.H Art business, where she sells an array of hand painted items, Rula Hijazi was a cake designer. 

“Approximately seven years ago in 2014, my sister and I were into cakes and used to decorate cakes and things were very good,” said Hijazi in an interview with Jordan News. اضافة اعلان

However, when she had her kids, it was hard for her to maintain her work as a cake designer, which is what pushed her to stop for a while. When she stopped working in cake designing, Hijazi realized that she wanted to establish her business. 

In addition, her father’s support was what encouraged Hijazi to pursue a different career path — one that involved spending hours with a brush between her fingers. 


A collection of work from R.F.H Art, which sells an array of hand painted items by artist Rula Hijazi. (Photos: Handouts from Rula Hijazi)

“My father, may God rest his soul, always saw my talent for painting, so he used to push me to paint and do better,” she said. “My fathers’ words, his encouragement, and the way he believed in me never left my mind.”

One day, when she was bored, Hijazi found an old jean shirt tucked somewhere in her house. Suddenly, she felt the urge to paint on it. 

“After finishing it, I posted it online and the reaction from my family and friends was huge,” said Hijazi. “They wanted me to paint for them as well. This is how it really started. Step by step, I started painting on other things.”

Hijazi believes that fashion is one of the best ways for individuals to express their identities. Her designs and paintings are mainly customized to reflect her clients’ personalities. 

“People who order from me want to express … what fashion means to them,” she said. 


A collection of work from R.F.H Art, which sells an array of hand painted items by artist Rula Hijazi. (Photos: Handouts from Rula Hijazi)

Commenting on her work, Hijazi described her painting style as “free”.
“My paintings and designs have many details in them,” she said. “However, if you pay attention to them, you’ll notice that they give you a sense of freedom. I like to let my hands go with the flow according to what the client wants.”

She said she enjoys seeing her clients express themselves in the way they dress, be it by asking for soft or “powerful”-looking items.
For Hijazi, painting and designing are also a way to meditate and clear her mind. 

“Whenever I start designing a new piece, I get disconnected from the world without even noticing, and it helps me enter my own zone and feel comfortable.” 

Hijazi told Jordan News that she is also inspired by her surroundings, by her children, to whom she aspires to be a role model, and her loved ones, who continue to encourage her every day. 


A collection of work from R.F.H Art, which sells an array of hand painted items by artist Rula Hijazi. (Photos: Handouts from Rula Hijazi)

One of the challenges Hijazi faced by pursuing a career in hand painting was choosing the right material to paint on. 

When she first started, she looked for the right medium to paint on and a way to make sure that her paintings remained intact after the items were washed. After conducting several tests, she discovered stainless-steel bottles, which worked miracles. 

“There is always a struggle when you try a new medium,” she said. 
Aspiring designers must not be afraid to take the first step, said Hijazi, adding that experimentation is critical, and that beginners must study what they want to do extensively before entering the industry. 


A collection of work from R.F.H Art, which sells an array of hand painted items by artist Rula Hijazi. (Photos: Handouts from Rula Hijazi)

“They have to keep in mind that they cannot satisfy everyone,” she said.  
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Hijazi’s mental health deteriorated, forcing her to halt her business for a while. 

“I was so down, and I could not be inspired to paint,” she said. “People’s priorities shifted back then, and I was thinking about my family’s health. But then I realized I can’t stay in this situation, so I broke out and went back to work.”

In the future, Hijazi hopes to introduce a line of new hand-painted mediums, launch her own website, and become internationally recognized.   
Rula Hijazi’s sister, Sura Hijazi, told Jordan News that Rula does not only paint — she also “sees beyond what everyone else sees.” 


A collection of work from R.F.H Art, which sells an array of hand painted items by artist Rula Hijazi. (Photos: Handouts from Rula Hijazi)

“I see a craft that has evolved over the years,” said Sura.
Sura said that her sister’s talent has been obvious ever since they were young, and their father was her number one supporter, always encouraging her to pursue art. 

“I’m so glad he did,” she said. “She inspires me every day.”


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