I challenged myself to create a painting in under 4–6 hours based on the prompt “The freedom to read.” For inspiration, I reflected on my family's story of immigrating to the United States in search of a better life. In Ecuador, access to education was limited—only those who could afford to pay were allowed real opportunities to learn. This system especially marginalized Indigenous communities, placing an unfair price on knowledge and reinforcing inequality.

My painting explores how reading—and education more broadly—can represent freedom, growth, and hope. It’s a tribute to those who fought for the right to learn, and to the sacrifices my family made to give future generations a chance at a better life.