This was my first sculpture, from around 2017-18. I wanted to do a kind of "diptych," or combination of complementary pieces, in this case a sculpture with an interrelated painting. I wanted to represent the idea of a lofty or ambitious goal, the idea that everyone has their own Elbrus or Everest. I wanted the viewer to be able to speculate on the figures’ motives, decision-making, determination, and sacrifices. It was inspired by hundreds of photos of real mountaineers. I started with plasticine on a metal armature, and I had assistance from a professional sculptor in Moscow who guided me through the process of making a bronze casting.