This painting is based on a photo I took on a language exchange in Annecy, France. This experience was my first time travelling alone, and for me, it marked the beginning of my adult life; full of freedom. I spent the entirety of the trip hanging out by the lake, creating rough sketches of the boats, bridges and scenic mountains. For this painting I wanted to convey the feeling of being there, that summer that marked the end of my childhood and the beginning of a new life. I wanted the piece to be full of colour, and optimism. The shape of the trees, boats and buildings are blurred as I am unsure of my surroundings but the feeling of hope for the future, and the sun beating down on bare skin, remains.