old children (1)

Good afternoon, Semyon, and a happy birthday greeting to you from California, although it's already a day late. I'm wishing for you a year ahead of creative inspiration and fun wherever you can find it, and a joyous holiday season in whichever and however way you celebrate it, or not.

I realize that this portrait is an older work of yours; but it speaks out to me today. In my opinion it successfully conveys a perfect combination of childhood innocence, sadness and loss through your rendering of shadow and expression. I agree that it's haunting, and the title is perfect.

Cheers and best regards,
Ed