True Love was inspired by a touching photograph taken by German photographer Tobias Baumgaertner in Melbourne, capturing two penguins who had recently lost their partners and now comfort each other.
 
The photo, which won the magazine’s Community Choice Award, shows the penguins standing together for hours, rubbing flippers and watching the city lights. Moved by their gentle bond and Baumgaertner’s dedication to capturing it over three nights, I created this painting to celebrate their quiet companionship and resilience.