This portrait was created for Anca, someone I’ve known and appreciated for many years, both personally and professionally. I’ve always been drawn to the quiet steadiness she brings into any space - an inner clarity that doesn’t demand attention, but is instantly recognizable. That quality became the anchor point for the visual language I wanted to build.

Working with cut peat panels in black, grey, and white allowed me to approach the image in a way that felt both tactile and restrained. The limited palette was intentional removing distractions. The material itself brought a natural depth to the surface, reinforcing the calm presence I hoped to convey.

Anca’s way of being is thoughtful, intentional, and well-paced. This work is not only a visual interpretation of her features, but also a response to how she holds herself in the world. There’s a sense of attention and presence in her that’s subtle, yet unmistakable. The portrait became a way to translate that quality into form - quiet, structured, and open.