Painting had become, almost literally, a lifesaver for me. My art used to provide a vehicle to release my stress and emotions, and create a world in which I could lose myself. More than that, it gave me something of my own.

I was more successful than I’d imagined; my first exhibition sold out and success continued to grow. Leo did not approve, but that did not matter to me. I found enough solace in my work to be able to overcome his annoyance. I’m not sure when I became strong enough to ignore Leo’s concerns about my freedom, or when I began to forge a path without him. Living my own life gave me such resilience when it came to Leo. When I could escape, his words and actions did not matter nearly as much.

My success soon took me abroad, giving me vital time to myself. I started running art tours, taking artists on painting expeditions around the world. These trips provided freedom for me when I needed it most. I relished these moments, forging my own path through new frontiers. I revelled in having relationships with people Leo did not know, and exploring and making memories which did not involve him. I was not at his liberty, and could control things as I wanted.

I had a life entirely of my own; even if it was just for several weeks a year. That was priceless.