I’m 19. It’s Fall 2021, my friends and I get a cool offer: to join the team at the UrbanMorphoGenesis mural festival in Solnechnodolsk, Stavropol Krai. [No worries if you don’t know where that is, it’s in Russia]. And what an experience! We assisted artists with a multitude of different tasks, like preparing facades & collaborating on intricate mural creations. These facades, placed on residential buildings, spanned from five to 20 stories high. And so, it wasn't just about learning from pros and expanding our skills; it was also a chance for me to tackle my fear of heights.

Who would have guessed that the opportunity to participate in the collaborative, dynamic street art scene would also be a platform for personal growth and development? Confronting my fear of heights in such a creative and supportive environment was empowering. Plus, being a part of a unique team of artists, who came from all around the world, enriched my perspective, broadened my horizons, and inspired me to push the boundaries of my own artistry.

Overall, the UrbanMorphoGenesis festival gave me valuable, life-long skills, cherished memories, and a newfound sense of confidence in facing challenges & the world head-on.