Written by Nia Bowers
In the bustling heart of Dubai, where the pace of life can often feel overwhelming, Ankina Zakarian has carved out a sanctuary for self-discovery and healing. As the founder of Detox in Creativity, Mrs. Zakarian is on a mission to show that art isn't just for artists, it's a powerful tool for anyone seeking to navigate life's challenges. "Art is a journey, not a final destination, and anyone is welcome," she shares, encapsulating the core message of her brand.
Zakarian's path to art therapy began with her own personal struggles. Working through issues of self-love and emotional hurdles, she discovered that creative expression could strengthen and heal. "I found that we can strengthen and help ourselves through different types of therapy, but I found art therapy to be my calling," she explains. Unlike traditional methods that might focus on medication, art therapy for Zakarian is about releasing oneself through creativity. It provides space to let go of life's darkness, heighten sensory awareness, and gain a fresh perspective, proving that sadness and healing can coexist. This personal revelation not only built her self-confidence but also ignited a purpose: to help others reclaim control over their lives through power, love, and passion.
Inspired by the belief that "you don't have to wait for anyone or anything, instead, you learn that you have the control in the palm of your hands," Zakarian launched Detox in Creativity. The brand transforms traditional one-on-one cognitive-behavioral therapy into dynamic team-building sessions, making it accessible to corporations, schools, and non-profit organizations. What sets it apart? It's not about creating masterpieces; it's about the process. "People think they have to be an artist to create, but it's more about the process than the final destination," Zakarian notes. "It takes you through a journey of truly understanding yourself and surprising yourself with what you could be."
Challenges were inevitable in building her business. The biggest hurdle? Misconceptions about art therapy. "The hardest thing I had to overcome was that people didn't have a clear understanding of art therapy, but instead misunderstood it as that you need to be mentally insufficient to go through the process of it," she recalls. Zakarian overcame this by educating others, explaining its true nature and offering simple exercises that demonstrate it's a relaxing brain workout amid the chaos of daily life, not a sign of weakness.
Her career highlights reflect a commitment to community and safety: earning an EHS certificate and collaborations with institutions such as Iman Nursery and the Armenian School in Dubai. These recognitions underscore her dedication to creating safe, nurturing environments for creative exploration.
A poignant personal story highlights the transformative power of her work. Eight years ago, Zakarian enrolled her daughter in painting classes, but the child withdrew. Seizing the opportunity, Zakarian repurposed the package for sculptural classes herself. "I took the opportunity to use her package and asked what I could pursue, and at that time, I was going through a lot, and I didn't know that it could lead me to the process of change and healing myself," she says. This led to her first exhibit, showcasing sculptures that boosted her self-confidence and self-love. "It took me to places I never thought I'd be in. I had an exhibit with all my sculptures, and this was my first ever exhibit, and itgotn me so many offers that it gave me self-confidence and self-love, which helped me realize that I can do anything I wan,t even through doubts."
For those in Dubai looking to detox their minds and unleash creativity, follow Detox in Creativity on Instagram (@detoxincreativity) for inspiring workshops, like recent Ramadan art sessions at Art Workshop Cafe, where gratitude and creativity blend seamlessly.
Whether you're a busy professional or part of a team seeking stronger bonds, Zakarian's approach reminds us: healing starts with a single stroke of creativity.
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