Winter 2026 in Minsk was magical and fairy-like. It had everything I love about winter. It was a true celebration of life.

That winter, I spent three weeks in the hospital and had surgery. In spite of that, I was happy. Happy to be alive. Happy to see the natural beauty all around me.

Probably, those weeks in the hospital reinforced this feeling of happiness and gratitude for the moment.

I couldn't help staring at the snow falling under the street lights. When everyone is rushing, it is so magical—to stand and observe the snowfall or the glittering snow under the lights. It feels like there is a secret that only you know. That the world is whispering a very sacred secret to you: You are here. You were born to enjoy life, to worship this beauty. This is for you. Put aside the clutter in your head and look at this crisp stillness.

From this exact feeling, this painting series was born: each moment captured, deeply enjoyed, and connected to.

At some point, I caught myself thinking: I want this moment not to end. This is heaven. I don't want it to end. But the feeling of its finiteness—its transience—makes it both sad and even more precious, more magical.