Addiction- its normality and presence in our society contradicts the undeniably destructive nature of addiction. Raytchev's practice explores this theme to raise awareness of this subject, to promote positive message that change is possible and to challenge the stigma that comes with addiction.

'Progress not Perfection' project covers a group of people from diverse backgrounds who, in the past, dealt with various addictions (alcohol, drugs, food, sex, love, work, shopping, gambling... ). The context of each final painting is based on the series of interviews held with each participant. The process starts with sketches and live studies of participants as they share their experience of addiction and recovery. This change often leads to a profound experience that creates new values in their lives.

The expressive character of the paintings juxtaposed with clean 'peaceful' linework, relates to the fluctuating emotions of the subjects that are often accompanied by anxiety and depression. Personal narratives of the participants appear within the paintings. They share with honesty, the transparency about their past is captured with bold bright colours that don't shy away from the attention. The subtleties in each portrait allow the viewer to contribute to the final experience and relate in their own individual way.

As the viewer builds a relationships with and begins the journey to get to know each participant, he or she begins to explore addiction as a coping and adaptation mechanism and see that one can change.