I painted these orchids in winter, when I felt drawn to cooler colours and quiet contrasts. Orchids are my mother’s favourite flowers, and choosing them felt natural at that time.

At the time, everyday life felt busy and a little overwhelming, and painting became a way to step away from it for a while.

I had not worked much with blue before, but the colour slowly became the centre of the painting. The petals opened through layers of light and shadow, creating a calm but vivid presence.

Since then, this piece has remained one of my favourites.