As a person adopted from Russia into an Italian family, the stark contrast in my physical features, (blonde hair, blue eyes, and imposing facial structure), has always marked me as distinct,  or in other words different, within my familial context. However, amidst this visual unrelatedness, a profound sense of Italian identity has consistently anchored my self-perception, accompanied by an awareness of the subtle infusion of Russian heritage in my cultural makeup. This introspective reflection of my personal journey has ignited contemplation on more expansive themes, delving into the complex realms of national identity and belonging. At the core of my inquiry lies the fundamental question of what it genuinely entails to be accepted as 'one of them,' propelling a dialogue that unravels the intricate tapestry of connections shaping our understanding of self and cultural identity. To try and make sense and create a foothold within this idea of national identity and not simply having it be a nominalistic label. 

My artistic journey serves as a tangible manifestation of an inherent drive for exploration and discovery, communicated through various mediums such as painting, sculpture, and casting. This fervent embrace of experimentation becomes the life force of my practice, an ongoing pursuit to master new techniques that breathe life into my ideas. This perpetual process of exploration and experimentation propels my artistic evolution, a transformative voyage from the germination of an initial concept to the realization of a final piece. From my perspective, this artistic evolution embodies a continuous research endeavor, delving into the profound realms of nationality identity and belonging. Through my work, I invite viewers to join me in this exploration, to engage with the visual narratives that reflect and contribute to the ongoing dialogue about the intricate nuances of cultural identity and the profound interconnectedness of our diverse experiences. To share and collaborate together to shed light on this idea of national identity and belonging. Not only of mine but applying it in the real world and seeing, through this methodology, what the results are.