I was born in Kuwait, have lived in Peterborough for 36 years, and escape to Spain whenever I can. Juggling two cultures has taught me how to see light differently.

Today, I split my time between painting and photography — two ways of capturing the textures and light I find between the English countryside and the Mediterranean sun.

With a brush, I capture colours and textures on canvas, paper, or wooden boards. With a camera, I capture light. A lecturer once told me that photography is the art of painting with light. So for me, both artforms come from the same place: the need to paint.

Studio Dana is my happy space and creative hub. A place where I explore, create, and let loose. A space where I exhibit my work, take on commissions, and collaborate with clients who value art.

In my paintings, I love exploring how contrasts between colours, shapes, and textures make me feel — the mood they evoke, the emotions that rise to the surface. Behind the camera, I love capturing light and the fleeting moments it highlights. In both, I always find beauty in the details.

When I’m not in the studio, you’ll find me in the garden, walking in our local countryside, or travelling to my favourite holiday destination, Spain. That’s where I find inspiration for new projects.

My work moves between abstract and realism. Whether working with acrylics, inks, or a lens, I’m drawn to textures, patterns, and the way light falls across a scene.

I exhibit regularly with PAOS (Peterborough Artists’ Open Studios). This year, I’m opening my studio on the following dates:

• Saturday 27th June 11am - 6pm

• Saturday 4th July 11am - 6pm and Sunday 5th July 11am - 4pm

• Saturday 11th July 11am - 6pm

Click on the following link to my PAOS page:

https://paos.org.uk/artists/dana-al-gharabally/