What We Really Need Isn’t for Sale

I’m not a professional writer — I see myself as an artist who paints concepts and then searches for the words to describe them.

Every time I look at one of my paintings (or any painting, really), it means something different depending on the day or my mood. So, I started writing down those changing interpretations — and eventually realised I didn’t want to keep them to myself.

Why? Because I’m looking for meaningful conversations and genuine connections. Exhibiting my art has allowed me to experience that. People from all ages and backgrounds have shared their perspectives on my work — sometimes seeing things I hadn’t even seen myself. And I often think: If I had never dared to exhibit my work, these conversations would have never happened.

So here I am again, daring to try something new — in pursuit of that same connection.

The title of my first article, “What we really need isn’t for sale”, came from a random thought while I was stuck in traffic, right in front of a McDonald’s. As always, it was crowded. I thought to myself: This is a multimillion-dollar company built on two buns and a piece of meat — nothing too complex. People “need” fast, cheap food.

Then I went deeper. I realised how businesses today often tell us what we need: to look prettier, skinnier, trendier, constantly online. But deep down, what I truly need is love and connection. I just forget that sometimes — lost in all the noise around me.

And so, besides seeing my art as a business, I now see it as an act of love — a way to connect. Because connection is found through expression, through conversation, through daring to share a piece of ourselves.

Here, I plan to post my reflections, thoughts on my art, and the day-to-day lessons that come with creating and living.

Let’s see what happens.

Annette Handal.