Anna Litvinova Odessa resident with cerebral palsy, artist Country: Ukraine

Anna Litvinova: Overcoming Disability to Pursue a Passion for Art

At just 19 years old, Anna Litvinova, an artist from Odessa with cerebral palsy, has become a sought-after painter. Despite her inability to move without assistance, Anna has defied the odds and established herself as a talented artist. From a young age, Anna showed a strong determination and willpower to succeed. Her mother, Elena Litvinova, recalls that even with her severe diagnosis, Anna never stopped drawing.

Anna's journey as an artist began when she asked her mother to take her to a children's art center to learn how to draw. Impressed by her talent, the teachers began coming to their home to provide Anna with free art lessons. Today, Anna has hundreds of vibrant portraits of friends and acquaintances, as well as numerous landscapes in various techniques.

Despite not having a formal art education, Anna paints with remarkable precision and pours her heart and soul into her artwork. One of her favorite pieces, "Crimean Sea," depicts a landscape she has never seen before. Inspired by photographs brought back by friends, Anna painted the scene from her imagination. However, her dream is to visit the actual location, but her illness requires all her resources to be allocated towards treatment.

Anna's artwork has gained recognition and she has held two solo exhibitions, one in 2010 at the "House with an Angel" rehabilitation center and another in March 2012. Her work has even reached notable figures, such as presenting her painting "Odessa Courtyard" as a gift to Patriarch Kirill by Metropolitan Agafangel. Anna's paintings often sell well, especially her landscapes and still life pieces created with oil paint.

She dreams of showcasing her art in the capital and continues to explore different genres and styles. Although the portrait drawing is challenging for her, Anna finds solace in the eyes of her subjects, capturing their emotions with precision. While she acknowledges that she still has much to learn, Anna relies on selling her art for financial support, as she requires constant medical treatment.

Despite her limitations, Anna has a strong support system of friends and helpers who come to her home to have their portraits painted. She believes in constant self-improvement and is eager to develop her skills. Anna's dedication to her craft is evident in her ability to produce a single piece over the span of a month, working on it for only an hour a day.

In addition to painting, Anna also creates icons, a practice for which she sought the blessing of a priest. Her icon of Holy Virgin Mary is displayed at the Odessa Holy Iveron Men's Monastery, while another depiction of Christ can be found in the Vladimir Icon of the Mother of God church.

Anna's artistic journey has not been easy, but she remains resilient and optimistic. Her work not only contributes to her own well-being but also supports other children with cerebral palsy through art therapy. The "House with an Angel" rehabilitation center holds an annual auction to sell artwork created by children, with proceeds going towards their health and providing financial assistance to their families. Through art, Anna and other children with disabilities are able to improve their physical and mental well-being, while also making a positive impact on their communities.