OUR STORY

The inception of Atmanarao traces back to Rafat Omar’s early experiences with fashion and design, influenced by his exposure to techno music and spiritual philosophies. The brand began taking shape in Berlin (2014-2016), where Rafat was inspired by the city’s dynamic art and music scene. This period was instrumental in refining the brand’s vision and integrating the principles of slow fashion and sustainability. Over time, Atmanarao has evolved from a singular fashion project into a broader movement that includes art galleries, design ateliers, and collaborative spaces, all dedicated to celebrating craftsmanship and creativity.

OUR MISSION

At Atmanarao, our mission is to redefine fashion through a harmonious blend of tradition, innovation, and sustainability. We are dedicated to creating high-quality backpacks and accessories that transcend fleeting trends and embody timeless styles. By focusing on craftsmanship and eco-friendly practices, we aim to challenge the norms of fast fashion and promote a culture of conscious consumption.Our goal is to craft products that not only capture the essence of contemporary life but also serve as enduring companions on our customers' journeys.

OUR VISION

Our vision at Atmanarao is to be a beacon of innovation and sustainability in the fashion industry. We aspire to create a global community that values quality, heritage, and ethical practices. By breaking away from conventional fashion norms and embracing a philosophy of “Crossing Borders,” we strive to foster a culture of inclusivity, self-expression, and environmental responsibility. We believe that fashion has the power to inspire change and bring people together, and we are committed to using our platform to promote a more conscious and connected world.

Rafat Omar

Founder of Atmanaro | Designer | Stylist | Artist

Born in Acre to a Palestinian refugee family from Tulkarm and raised in Haifa, my early years were shaped by the complexities of growing up as an Israeli-Arab-Palestinian. This experience instilled in me a deep commitment to truth, unity, hope for liberation, self-determination, and breaking down barriers.

The Artistic Journey

My artistic journey began with a passion for sculpture and portraiture. While I faced challenges in pursuing these art forms, I adapted and embraced fashion design as a means to merge my artistic vision with practical skills. At 19, I moved to Italy to study at the prestigious Accademia di Costume e Moda in Rome, despite the financial strain. This was a significant and challenging experience that marked the beginning of my professional journey in fashion.

In 2005, I opened Tulip Gallery in Haifa, a boutique focused on elegant, custom-made women’s clothing. This venture allowed me to blend my sculptural vision with fashion, creating wearable art that bridges the past and present. It was a testament to my resilience and dedication, turning my passion into a tangible and successful reality.

In 2013, I co-founded an agency dedicated to artistic events, blending electronic music with visual arts. This initiative aimed to recollect our heritage memory & Identity as Palestinians living across the country in Israel by organizing events that showcased House & Techno music, local musicians, and DJs. It was a significant milestone, creating a platform for professional and amateur artists to connect and express themselves while celebrating our shared cultural heritage.

Before relocating to Berlin for the first time, I gained valuable experience as an assistant in the head curatorial office at Haifa Museum of Art. This role deepened my understanding of contemporary art and provided further immersion into the art world. I also curated an exhibition in Haifa City Museum as a main curator for a communal exhibition undernamed XY Crhomozone.  

My design approach is rooted in creativity and free expression. My background in sculpture and painting shapes how I approach fashion today. Inspired by Michelangelo's words, "Every block of stone has a statue inside it, and it is the task of the sculptor to discover it," I craft each Atmanaro backpack with care, allowing the design to emerge naturally, like revealing a sculpture.

From I Am Nur to Atmanarao

The transition from "I Am Nur" to "Atmanarao" signifies a profound evolution in my journey. Initially, "I Am Nur," translating to "I am light" in Arabic, represented my vision of reflecting the inherent light within every person. As my brand evolved, so did its philosophy, shifting to "Crossing Borders." This new guiding principle embodies not only my personal experiences but also the broader struggles of those facing barriers in their pursuit of a better, more equitable, and fairl life.

The name "Atmanarao" carries deep meaning: "AT" stands for atoms, "MA" for matter, "NA" for nature, and "RO" for roots. It symbolizes the essential elements of life and aligns with my current way of balancing existence between the natural world and the urban environment.

Establishing Atmanarao has been marked by significant sacrifices and challenges, including relocating and applying for visas six times to return to Europe. Despite these hurdles, my passion for self-expression and the pursuit of liberty has remained steadfast. My identity has consistently presented societal and political challenges, reinforcing my commitment to justice, particularly towards my people in occupied Palestine and those suffering from colonial subjugation. Atmanarao’s mission is to transcend physical, cultural, artistic, and ideological borders, fostering understanding and unity.

In 2005, I opened Tulip Gallery in Haifa, a boutique focused on elegant, custom-made women’s clothing. This venture allowed me to blend my sculptural vision with fashion, creating wearable art that bridges the past and present. It was a testament to my resilience and dedication, turning my passion into a tangible and successful reality.

In 2013, I co-founded an agency dedicated to artistic events, blending electronic music with visual arts. This initiative aimed to recollect our heritage memory & Identity as Palestinians living across the country in Israel by organizing events that showcased House & Techno music, local musicians, and DJs. It was a significant milestone, creating a platform for professional and amateur artists to connect and express themselves while celebrating our shared cultural heritage.

Before relocating to Berlin for the first time, I gained valuable experience as an assistant in the head curatorial office at Haifa Museum of Art. This role deepened my understanding of contemporary art and provided further immersion into the art world. I also curated an exhibition in Haifa City Museum as a main curator for a communal exhibition undernamed XY Crhomozone.