Ihor • 10 • Donegal

8-11 Category   •  2026
Hi, My name is Ihor and I am 10 years old. I was born in Odesa, Ukraine, which is near the sea. I spent a lot of time on the beach there. Now I live in Donegal, and there are many beautiful beaches here too. I like drawing sunsets because I enjoy mixing many colours. The sky changes from deep blue to purple, red, and warm yellow. I wanted to show how nature can look magical even without people in it. The small fish and birds show that life continues quietly in nature. Nature is always alive and moving, even when everything feels still. The palm trees are strong and tall near the water. They stay in one place while the sea and sky are always changing. I made this painting using gouache paints. I like gouache because it has bright colours and helps me blend them softly. Ever since I started drawing, whenever I saw nature it always inspired me and helped me to create art. When I look at the sea and the sky, I feel calm and happy. I want people who see my painting to feel the same way and to remember how important it is to love and protect nature.