
Anna Ciok - Watercolor Painter
My journey to becoming a painter was long and winding, reminding me that it's never too late for change and that embracing it can lead to extraordinary transformations.
As a child, painting was my greatest passion—I painted obsessively. However, when I entered high school, my focus shifted to other pursuits, and for over 20 years, I set aside creating. I earned a degree in sociology and built a career in business, working closely with people. Yet, creativity never left me. Along the way, I also studied interior design, and my love for travel and discovering beauty in the world never faded. I have a natural ability to see wonder in small things—in nature, unusual shapes, textures, soft light, and intriguing color combinations. This is one of my greatest talents and what drives my work.
An unexpected job loss and a move to Tenerife brought me back to painting after a two-decade hiatus. Inspiration is abundant here. The island’s stunning landscapes, the ocean, the gentle climate, and the locals who know how to savor life provide endless fuel for my creativity. I feel deeply grateful to live and create in such a magical place, often called "the happy island," and I'm especially thankful for the warm reception my art has received.