I visited Novgorod, Russia in 2005. Ten centuries ago, during the wintertime, a dove froze to the top of the cross of St. Sophia’s Church, and many people took that as a sign of hope that they would survive the oppressive monarchy. Today, a sculpture of a dove was attached where the real dove froze. St. Sophia’s church is the heart and soul of Novgorod. Once I saw this church and heard the story, I wanted to capture this strength in a painting if I could. (Private collection - giclee available)