Russian artist Alexander "Sascha" Korolev has embarked on a completely new chapter of his life in the German city of Neubrandenburg, making the difficult decision to leave his homeland at nearly 60 years old. The painter, accompanied by his wife Julia, chose to start over in a foreign country rather than continue living under increasingly dangerous conditions in Russia.

For Korolev, who describes himself as a critical free spirit, remaining in Russia had become too perilous. The political climate and restrictions on artistic expression created an environment where independent-minded artists like himself could no longer work safely or speak freely about their views.

The couple has now been living in Neubrandenburg for two and a half years, establishing new roots in the northeastern German city. This significant life change represents not only a geographical relocation but also a complete reinvention of their personal and professional lives in a country that offers them the freedom of expression they were denied in their homeland.

Korolev's story reflects the broader struggles faced by many Russian artists and intellectuals who have been forced to choose between their safety and their homeland in recent years. His decision to begin anew in Germany at this stage of his life demonstrates both the courage required to start over and the importance of artistic freedom in his work.