I created my portrait by sketching the subject and then painting her with watercolor. I chose a reference with whom I felt a personal connection. I felt a connection to my subject the first time I saw her, and the connection grew as I worked on the portrait. The subject had eyes that told a story of strength and courage, and I wanted to be a part of the story I saw in her eyes. When I first started sketching her, I could feel all her insecurities as if they were my own. As I began to paint her, I could feel her insecurities begin to fade away, and I could see her confidence growing before my eyes. My goal for this piece was to show the subject's growth and new found confidence through her expression and through the colors I used. While creating this portrait, I learned that as you do positive things for yourself, you will begin to see your own beauty grow from the inside out. I hope she is a source of encouragement for girls of all ages who struggle with self love and acceptance.