Hello, my name is Anastasiia Ivanova and I'm from Ukraine. I've been living in Zurich, Switzerland since the war started back home. My life changed very rapidly overnight. We had a feeling that this would happen, but you only realize it once it's happening. It took me a bit of time to process everything that we are going through and that is still happening every day. You would to go back to a normal life but first time in my life I'm learning what it means to be a refuge. My father and brother are still back home and I'm here with my mother.

We receive news from our friends and family members every day, and while we try to motivate them, it's not always so simple. The first few months I couldn't paint—there was just too much to process and think about. Only now, after half a year, have I found the energy to pick up my brush again. Nature helps me clear out sometimes unnecessary and depressing thoughts; it calms my soul. And it was in the Swiss mountains of Engadin where I found new peace thanks to a good friend. This is what gave me the strength to start painting again.

The stunning nature and light of the Engadin valley gave me a sense of peace and the desire to paint again. I will never forget that moment of tranquility on the edge of Lake Sils, with the reflection of autumn colors in the water. The biggest impact was my first journey to Diavolezza. It was the first time in my life I found myself surrounded by such high mountains. They are not only impressive and beautiful, but they also taught me that nature is powerful and strong.

Thank you, Engiadina!