I am delighted to have the opportunity to participate in your contest. As an artist from Ukraine, I sought refuge in Scotland during the war. My career has always been anchored in graphic and PR design, while painting has been a blend of leisure and dreams. I hold a master's degree in art. Currently, I am devoted solely to art, practicing in Scotland. Scotland inspires and empowers me to continue living. The works I've submitted for your consideration were created at the onset of the war, during its early stages, and throughout its progression. One piece depicts a Wild Scottish Cat. Another, my orchid, portrays my disgruntled daughter against the backdrop of my home orchidarium's glass cabinet. She is critically minded, reluctant to pose for me, and harbors some resentment. The third piece is of a friend, who has a reliable protector and takes pride in herself. She is honest, bold, intriguing, emotional, yet remains a woman in any circumstance. Currently, I am working on several paintings that reflect views on the war and the world.