Ilze was born in Latvia, one of the Baltic states during the Soviet reign.Growing up on the farm she always interacted with animals, birds and all things nature. She had to work hard physically all year round but, winters had a slower pace of life and there was time for creative activities. Following her grandmother’s steps she learnt the skills of intricate handiwork and developed her love for colour. Although, remaining creative all through her adolesence, Ilze discovered her talent to paint only in her fifties. She was very good at capturing her emotions with colours and movement. The more she painted what was in her heart, the more she felt the need to gain more skills. Coming across the Milan Art Institute Mastery Programme was a timely opportunity for that. Now her mastery is evident in the way she captures animals, birds and flowers which have become symbols of her artistic story telling.