Portugal, Artist I entered 2021 with a grateful heart for being in a country that was safe and had controlled the COVID situation so well, but still worried with what was happening with the rest of the world. I was determined to turn 2021 as the turning point of my artistic career. Becoming a full-time artist proved to be a bit challenging but it did not stop me, especially when I have the support of my family. My husband, my biggest supporter, arranged my first exhibition in China. Due to some COVID cases and for safety reasons, the exhibition was put on hold. A new date for my exhibition was set and in August I was showing my first collection, with about 20 paintings, “Connections Between Animals and Humans.” One of my portrait paintings was selected to take part in the Our World 2021 International Contemporary Art Exhibition and was awarded with Excellence Prize. All this gave me the opportunity to go deeper with my paintings, and along the way I’ve met wonderful people that for sure will have impact on my future as an artist. At the end of 2021 I’m working on launching my brand. So, my expectations for 2022 are high and I’m looking forward to every challenge. I hope for a great 2022 for all of us. | 