In this testimonial essay, the author recounts how, encouraged by his parents to paint, he discovered his love of painting early in life. This later led him to abandon a banking career and dedicate himself entirely to art. He explains how childhood memories of the East haunt him and dictate his themes and style. Through his paintings, he strives to make up for the daily suffering and ugliness portrayed on TV screens by offering his alternative vision of a happier world. He paints cities and villages--some real; others imaginary--where tolerance is practiced, and where humans live, work, and play in peace and harmony. **********
