Happiness is Believing in Goodness

Happiness is Believing in Goodness
Reem Al Taki

Artist's Statement

My name is Reem Al Taki, I am a Syrian artist who studied French literature at the University of Damascus. I married and moved to Jordan and taught French language in Syria and Jordan. After I had my second child I left my job to care for my family full time.

When my daughter was in medical school, she saw possible symptoms of cancer in me and urged me to see a doctor. Because of her persistence and by the grace of God, she saved my life. I tried to remain positive and accept the diagnosis of cancer with gratitude and faith in God’s plan for me. When I struggled during chemotherapy I started to get private drawing and painting lessons to help me get through it. My love for drawing helped my mind focus on the moment.

After 4 years I obtained a certification in the Persian art style. This art helped me learn patience. I first learned traditional Persian designs by imitation, then started drawing my own designs using rich colors and paint made with gold. I also used my imagination to paint scenes from my favorite oriental stories that are optimistic and beautiful.

I think anyone can access hidden talent and make art in their own way. Through my faith, I don’t fear any adversity even cancer. My optimism lets me believe everything from God is a gift that we may appreciate years later.

The Voices Art Gallery is located on level B1 of the Rogel Cancer Center Building.
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The Voices Art Gallery is offered by the Rogel Cancer Center Art Therapy Program and is made possible by gifts to the Helen and Sonya Fund and the Rogel Cancer Center Art Therapy Program. Program supplies are generously supported by the Robert Bruce Dunlap Memorial Fund.

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