Valeria Privalikhina, Taormina, 2019
Oil on canvas, 50 × 50 cm (19.7 × 19.7 inches)
© Valeria Privalikhina
 
“Painting Taormina was unforgettable. I had just set the easel when the storm started to gather. The wind got stronger, and soon I found myself struggling with the elements and using all my strength preventing the canvas and the easel from flying away. Nature proved to be stronger than me, so I had to retire to the comfort of my studio to complete this piece, and looking at it always puts a broad smile on my face.” —Valeria Privalikhina