I was a little girl in Russia, an orphan, and God brought me love, from Michigan.

 

Grace is the thread that has woven everything together. My journey from Russia, across the ocean, to Michigan. It is through His guidance that my art has found its way here, and it’s His strength that has enabled me to create. I believe that He has designed me for this purpose.

 

Everything I create is a reflection of what resides in my heart and mind, a glimpse of myself through brushstrokes. I am grateful and humbled by the acknowledgement and appreciation of my work. Thank you for making me feel seen.

 

My story through the eyes of a neighbor:

 

"It was August 2000 when I first saw little Anya walk outside of her new home. She was small, quiet and happy. She enjoyed outside and she loved her family. A year later another girl joined her. Her own sister from what I’ve been told. I watched them grow up a normal life. Playing outside, having friends over, being surrounded by family. Enjoying the pool and getting spontaneous pets every summer.

 

After high school, Anya’s passport was filling up. Her adventures in Ireland, Italy, Scotland, Hungary, Ukraine, the American Wild West. She learned culture and people, and how to love strangers and life.

 

One day I noticed Anya’s truck was gone every night, I heard she fell in love with a boy. For years, she was off adventuring with her best friend, until one day she came home, and stayed home. I heard it was a hard heartbreak.

Big changes means new adventures. Anya moved out last year, no longer my neighbor but I hear she is a big time artist.  She learned healing, growth, and forgiveness.

 

I hope she knows that life is hard and she is doing amazing. I hope she knows that her story is not over but just has begun. Her life has shaped her for a purpose and she is destined for amazing things."