Forces of Nature #5

The Ponta Delgada – Azores 2027 bid for European Capital of Culture has launched the “Forces of Nature” photographic series, by the photographer Paulo Goulart. The aim is to show that our nature is human, by showing people that build the culture of this place.

Her name is Sofiia Shumailova, she is 15 years old and a refugee.  She was born in Ukraine but has lived in Portugal for 3 years. She attends the 11th grade of the Science and Technology course, studies at the conservatory and has been playing the piano for ten years.

The place where she was photographed, the conservatory, has a very special meaning to her, as it is like a second home. She finds the environment pleasant and the teachers amazing. Russian Irina Semënova is one of those teachers who helps Sofiia grow “both as a pianist and also as a person”.

She is very fond of nature, especially the sea. When summer arrives, she spends every day in direct contact with nature. These are the privileges of living on an island where green is predominant.

Nature is an inspiration for her work.  Without it, she doesn't believe it's possible to achieve her goals.  Nature plays a big role in her life and in everything she does.