Explore Cultural Arts & Ideas at JCC Columbus.

Home to Cultural Arts Programs such as Gallery Players and Columbus Jewish Film Festival in Celebration of Andrew Ethan Stern. 

On Display at the JCC

Hani Hara: the Colors of Freedom

Hani Hara is a self-taught artist whose distinctive style is rooted in intuition and spontaneity. Born in Egypt, Hani lived briefly in France before moving to Columbus, Ohio, at the age of 11, a diverse background that informs his love for freedom of style and space.

Hara’s vibrant work is characterized by beautiful, sensual color palettes and striking, expressive faces. He approaches painting as an act of discovery, allowing the brush to lead the way. This philosophy is captured in his words: “I love starting a painting without a plan…it gives my mind and heart the pleasure of working together to see what can be created.”

A dedicated member of the Central Ohio community, Hani has leveraged his passion for art into active service. He previously served on the board of the Ohio Art League and finds great inspiration in the local creative ecosystem, noting: “Having served on the board has given me a sense of the wonderful art being created in our area. The relationship between art groups, galleries, and the public grows every year.”

Hani is also committed to arts advocacy and education, having volunteered to introduce children to the world of art. Through programs like the Ohio Arts Council’s “Short Roy,” he has partnered with school-age children to create original works, calling it a fulfilling experience: “To see the kids faces after creating these works of art is a thrill.”

In recent years, Hani has expanded his creative practice into the digital realm, describing it as a “wonderful adventuring in that world.” His work has been widely exhibited throughout Central Ohio for over 15 years, including a notable recognition as the Featured Artist for the 2007 Via Colori event and the 2007 GCAC Business Arts Partnership Award.

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