My oil painting is of sunbathers on the beach in Varna, Bulgaria, as a navy ship sweeps for mines in the Black Sea - a threat caused by the Russian invasion of Ukraine happening just over the horizon.
"Paddling with Putin" is a slightly humorous title that plays on the unexpected contrast between the leisurely sunbathers under their colourful umbrellas, and the ominous military ship looming on the horizon.
I've spent August 2023 in Varna. As I was enjoying an Aperol in a beach bar, this military ship slowly drifted past. A reminder to reflect on the war being waged on the other side of the sea, while we enjoy our summer at the beach.
