The Hunting Eagle!

Artist Statement – Fernanda Casagrande Haquim (@eufer02) Hi, I am really happy and very honored to have received recommendations for this event. I created this drawing using my digital tablet and Adobe Photoshop, with a screen size of 5000 pixels. The idea for this artwork came to me during quiet, thoughtful nights. I would often lie in bed, staring at the ceiling and walls, imagining an eagle flying with its paws stretched out to catch something. As soon as I woke up the next day, I tried to bring that vision to life in Photoshop, using real-life references and videos of other birds of prey. Since I find drawing paws and claws challenging, I added my own artistic style to complete the image without leaving it unfinished. This week marks the beginning of a new phase in my life. I’ve started new things as I enter adulthood. I’m 22 years old, turning 23 in July! I don’t usually like to emphasize this, but in case it helps me in any way: I am AUTISTIC. That’s something not always visible or well understood nowadays. I’m often afraid of how this might affect me in the future. But what I truly wish is that this detail could simply be part of me, not define me entirely. While I could be at home avoiding the adult world — as many in similar situations often do — I seek to grow. I want to earn my freedom and my family’s trust, to show I can manage without always needing help. I dream of living a “normal” life, like others my age: driving, going out alone to a mall or a park, meeting friends… I know I may not have as many chances as other incredible artists creating wild things with paint and canvas, but at least I can share a glimpse of my creative universe. Best regards, Fernanda Haquim