This is one of many works featuring my ex-partner. We have a deep, caring friendship and have both been through some emotionally difficult times in the years since we broke up. Despite our quick tempers and spats, we always end up feeling a bit safer in each other's company. Here, he sits in my kitchen feeling particularly despondent and lost. I took his photo and joked that I was exploiting his misery for art. The title TRUE LOVE refers to tattoo on his arm, only just visible under a large scar. Though the colours are mostly warm and bright, the painting shows a heaviness and sadness, an underlying panic attack.