Ahlam Mosteghanemi / Feminism in Arabic literature

 

Three women stand resilient in the vast desert, embodying the spirit of Ahlam Mosteghanemi's literary exploration of identity and empowerment in the Arab world

Ahlam Mosteghanemi: feminism in Arabic literature

Exploring the depths of identity and love in her trilogy

25 APRIL 2025, 

MERYEM CHAGRAOUI

Ahlam Mosteghanemi, born on April 13, 1962, in Tunisia, stands as a towering figure in contemporary Arabic literature. Her literary contributions resonate with personal reflections on love, identity, and the intricate struggles faced by women in modern society. Mosteghanemi's narratives reflect a profound understanding of the feminist movement, positioning her as a pivotal voice advocating for transformation within the Arab world. 

Surrealism / Reality and imagination in art and poetry

Phillipe Halsman's photograph "Dalí Atomicus" (1948) of famous surrealist Salvador Dalí jumping into the air with three cats flying past him captures the essence of surrealism, bending reality while letting the imagination soar

Surrealism: reality and imagination in art and poetry

Uncovering the interplay of realism and fantasy in surrealists' universes

25 NOVEMBER 2024, 

MERYEM CHAGRAOUI

Metaphors arise from the womb of reality. They are fundamentally tied to the tangible world, and their beauty and effectiveness depend on this connection. If a metaphor cannot be traced back to real-life experiences or observations, it fails to fulfil its primary purpose. This link to reality is what makes metaphors resonate with us. They provide a way to understand complex ideas through familiar experiences, bridging the gap between the known and the unknown.

Exploring Salvador Dalí's timeless influence on surrealism

 

The Persistence of Memory by Salvador Dali

Exploring Salvador Dalí's timeless influence on surrealism

How Dalí's art challenges our perception of time and reality

12 FEBRUARY 2025, 

ORSOLYA ANTONI

In 2017, I had the opportunity to see the Salvador Dalí exhibition in Berlin. Dali's chaotic, genius pieces have always captivated me. His ability to project our crazy dreams and subconscious onto canvas is truly remarkable. What's even more fascinating is how his work, some more futuristic and others more questionable, seems to fit perfectly into today's reality. Dali's influence on modern art and culture is undeniably profound, shaping our perceptions and sparking new artistic expressions. His work has not only left an indelible mark on our collective consciousness but has also inspired a myriad of transformative impacts. Personally, I am deeply moved and inspired by the unparalleled influence of his art, and I believe his work will continue to inspire generations to come.

 

Kyoto geiko Toshimana, adorned in full makeup and a katsura wig, elegantly holds a Nō mask on the picturesque Kawamura Noh Stage, Japan

Geishas: captivating Japan's cultural legacy

Exploring the timeless artistry and tradition of Japan's female entertainers and hostesses

12 AUGUST 2024, 

ORSOLYA ANTONI

Embarking on a journey to immerse yourself in Japan's rich culture and traditions is a privilege every traveller should cherish. Among the most exclusive experiences is the opportunity to be entertained by traditional Japanese female performers and hostesses. With their captivating dances and enchanting personalities, they create an experience that is truly unique to Japan. Don't miss out on this chance to delve into the depths of Japanese culture and create memories that will last a lifetime.

 

The Great Wave at Kanagawa, designed by Katsushika Hokusai

The great wave off Kanagawa

A personal exploration of Japanese tradition and identity through the lens of Hokusai’s timeless print

12 NOVEMBER 2025, 

ORSOLYA ANTONI

This exquisite print, a masterpiece of ukiyo-e, never fails to captivate with its vibrant hues and intricate details. The moment I first encountered it, I was swept away by the tumultuous roar of the ocean, a wave rising high above the distant Mount Fuji, creating a stark contrast that ignited a profound curiosity within me about the awe-inspiring world of Japanese culture, art, and cuisine. The energy of the wave, so alive and dynamic, seemed to speak to a deeper narrative of resilience and beauty amidst chaos, leaving me in a state of wonder and awe.

A Photo / An American Soldier

 

A PHOTO

An American Soldier

This is a genuine World War II photograph taken in April 1945 by a U.S. Army Signal Corps photographer.

It shows an American soldier carrying a liberated concentration-camp prisoner, most likely from one of the camps in Germany that U.S. forces freed in the final weeks of the war (commonly associated with Dachau, Buchenwald, or one of their satellite camps).

Cats 2

 

CATS 2

Beauty and the Best

  

BEAUTY AND THE BEST

Resisting the Devil / Embracing humility and vigilance

 

Silhouette of a man with devil horns in dark shadows, symbolizing temptation and spiritual struggle

Resisting the Devil: embracing humility and vigilance

Strategies for maintaining faith and virtue amidst subtle spiritual attacks

26 JULY 2025, 

DESPINA NICOLA

The devil, much like a cunning pirate, lurks in the shadows, ever ready to rob us of our spiritual riches and leave us spiritually bankrupt. His methods are subtle, often marked by deception and persuasion rather than direct confrontation. Just as pirates target treasure-laden ships, the devil’s focus is on those who are rich in virtue, seeking to sink their spiritual wealth. His attacks aren't immediate or obvious; rather, they begin with small, almost imperceptible openings that slowly erode our spiritual defenses by planting seeds of pride and human glory.

 

The devil's silluette with a dark background

The fall of Lucifer: the devil’s role in spiritual warfare

Exploring Lucifer’s transformation into Satan, his impact on humanity, and strategies for spiritual vigilance

26 AUGUST 2025, 

DESPINA NICOLA

Lucifer, also known by many names—the Devil, Satan, the Tempter, the Prince of Darkness—stands as one of the most notorious figures in religious and cultural history. His infamous rebellion against the divine marked the beginning of an eternal struggle between light and darkness—a cosmic battle for the very souls of humanity. The name "Lucifer" itself comes from the Latin words lux (meaning "light") and ferre (meaning "to bear), so Lucifer once bore the title of "light-bringer" or "morning star."

How God turns struggles into spiritual victories

 

Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden by Wenzel Peter, Vatican Museum

How God turns struggles into spiritual victories

Faith and spiritual armor in the battle against the Devil's schemes

26 SEPTEMBER 2025, 

DESPINA NICOLA

From the very beginning, the devil’s strategy has been to separate humanity from God, starting with Eve’s fall. In the Garden of Eden, Eve was deceived by the serpent into eating the forbidden fruit, leading to humanity’s expulsion from paradise and the introduction of suffering and death. Yet, in God’s boundless mercy, this profound loss was transformed into an even greater reward—eternal life through Christ’s redemptive sacrifice. Throughout history, what the devil intends for destruction, God turns into opportunities for redemption and glory.

 

Hercules and Cerberus: Hercules grasps the collar of Cerberus by Antonio Tempesta

Hercules' twelfth labor: drawing strength from final triumph

Navigating life's challenges with courage, adaptability, and resilience

26 FEBRUARY 2025, 

DESPINA NICOLA

In life, we often encounter difficulties like misunderstandings and face consequences for things we are scared to confront. This mirrors the challenges Hercules faced, particularly in his final task, where he had to come up against his deepest fears which was to go to the underworld and capture Cerberus, the three-headed dog.

 

Cornelis van Haarlem (1562–1638), The Hesperides Filling the Cornucopia

Heracles' eleventh labor: modern triumph blueprint

How Heracles' mythic journey inspires modern problem-solving and ethical decision-making

11 FEBRUARY 2025, 

DESPINA NICOLA

The tales of Heracles may be ancient, but its lessons are still relevant today. In Heracles' adventures, we see him never giving up, asking for help when needed, solving problems creatively, and doing what's right. These lessons can guide us through our own tough times, whether at school, work, or in our relationships.

Hercules' tenth labor: timeless wisdom for today's trials

 

Hercules kills the giant Cacus and steals Geryoneus' cattle, Giovan Battista Langetti (1625–1676)

Hercules' tenth labor: timeless wisdom for today's trials

Empowering resilience, resourcefulness, and fearlessness in modern struggles

26 JANUARY 2025, 

DESPINA NICOLA

In today's fast-paced world, Hercules' tenth labor still teaches us valuable lessons. Picture Hercules being tasked with retrieving red cattle from the fearsome Geryon. Despite the tough odds, Hercules took on Geryon, a monster with three heads and six arms. Hercules shows us the importance of never giving up and using smart thinking to overcome challenges. His courage inspires us to face our own fears bravely.

 

The timeless allure of a Heracles statue, embodying strength and heroism, as a captivating centerpiece for any collection or display

Heracles' ninth labor: insights for modern challenges

Drawing wisdom from mythical deception and impulsive actions for today's world

11 JANUARY 2025, 

DESPINA NICOLA

Reflecting on these timeless stories reminds us of our inherent strength, wisdom, and potential for growth, empowering us to tackle life's challenges with resilience and determination. Consider the chaos caused by rumors on social media, which mirror Hera's deceit among the Amazons. False information spreads quickly, leading to misunderstandings and conflicts, much like Hera's disruptive actions. However, just as heroes like Heracles faced difficulties with bravery, we too can confront obstacles in our everyday lives. Even when impulsive decisions result in unexpected outcomes, taking a moment to pause and reflect helps us overcome any hurdles we encounter with grace and perseverance.

Heracles' eighth labor / Addition struggles and redemption

 

Hercules with his club in center fighting a centaur, other men fighting centaurs to left and right, from 'The labors of Hercules', print, Sebald Beham (MET, 2012.136.773.1)

Heracles' eighth labor: addiction struggles and redemption

Exploring the mythological allegory of resilience and redemption in the face of personal demons

26 DECEMBER 2024, 

DESPINA NICOLA

In the modern world, the tale of Heracles' eighth labor finds resonance in the struggles of individuals facing addiction. Just as Heracles confronted the wild and untamed Diomedian mares, those battling addiction confront their own inner demons—the relentless cravings, destructive behaviors, and spiraling consequences that threaten to consume them. Like Heracles, they must summon every ounce of courage and determination to confront these challenges head-on and reclaim control over their lives.

 

Overlooking the city and castle, a mighty king commands his domain with authority and strength

Heracles' seventh labor: lessons for modern challenges

Drawing insights from ancient mythology to navigate contemporary challenges

11 DECEMBER 2024, 

DESPINA NICOLA

In ancient Greek mythology, Heracles, also known as Hercules, was celebrated for his extraordinary strength and courage. His legendary feats, known as the Twelve Labors, shows how mighty the human spirit is. Among these labors, the seventh stands out—the capture of the Cretan bull as presently, we face complex issues like environmental degradation and societal unrest.