My recent visit to Romania was a truly special experience, as it allowed me to reconnect with one of my dearest friends, the talented artist and professor Stanciu, affectionately known as Ripi by those who are closest to him. It had been a while since our last meeting, and the anticipation of spending time together was exhilarating.

As I stepped into Ripi's studio, I was immediately struck by the so well-known serene atmosphere and the warm embrace of natural light pouring in through the large window. There was a sense of timeless creativity in the air, an ambiance that only an artist's workspace could offer. The walls, adorned with an array of captivating paintings, photographs, and carefully curated objects, hinted the depth of Stanciu's creative journey.

What made our time together truly special was the spontaneity of it all, as we embarked on a brief photographic adventure, capturing life as it unfolded in his studio. There was no elaborate preparation, no meticulously planned setup, and certainly no special effects. Instead, we decided to embrace the authenticity of the moment, allowing the beautiful, unfiltered natural light to be our guide.

Each click of the camera shutter felt like a tribute to the genuine moments we were sharing. The light danced across the room, casting enchanting shadows on the canvases and installations, imbuing them with a life of their own. It was as if the studio itself was a living, breathing masterpiece.

Amidst the quiet, we found time for meaningful conversations and reflections. The studio served as a sanctuary, a place where thoughts flowed freely, and memories were revived and, at times, even debugged. We reminisced about the adventures we had embarked on together, the artistic challenges we had overcome, and the lessons life had imparted upon us.

As the hours passed by, I couldn't help but feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude for Maitre. I affectionately call him "Maitre" as a token of respect for his profound artistic wisdom and friendship.

Thank you, Maitre for your enduring and beautiful friendship, and for the countless lessons I've learned from you over the years since we first crossed paths!

Our time together in the studio, bathed in the gentle embrace of natural light, was a testament to the enduring power of friendship and the profound impact of art on our lives. It was a day etched into my memory, a day that reminded me of the timeless beauty that can be found in the simplest of moments and the most genuine of connections.

Camera Yashica Mat 124G / Film Kentmere Pan 100