Chasing the Northern lights / A winter journey to Iceland

 

A brown cottage beneath a glowing aurora borealis

Chasing the Northern lights 

A winter journey to Iceland, seen through a child’s wonder and a family’s shared adventure

Orsolya Antoni

12 August 2026

My daughter is an exceptionally bright and curious little girl. Recently, she learnt about the mesmerising Northern Lights at her nursery, and since then, our lives have been infused with wonder and excitement surrounding this natural phenomenon. She has eagerly watched nearly every documentary available, her eyes wide with amazement, and she has bombarded me with a flurry of questions about this enchanting spectacle. Determined to make her dreams come true, I decided that witnessing the Northern Lights firsthand would be the ultimate gift. So, with a sense of adventure in our hearts, I purchased our tickets, and soon we will embark on a magical journey to Iceland in December, where we will chase the vibrant colours dancing across the winter sky.

  

A woman photographs a building in Paris, Île-de-France, France

Paris through a visitor’s eyes

How the city of light reveals its culture, artistry, and everyday elegance beyond the iconic landmarks

Orsolya Antoni

12 June 2026

In 2017, I had the extraordinary opportunity to explore one of the world’s most enchanting cities: Paris. Often celebrated as a symbol of romance and elegance, the city reveals a much deeper identity when experienced through the eyes of a visitor. Beyond its iconic landmarks lies an intricate cultural landscape shaped by history, art, philosophy, and the everyday rituals of its people. Paris is not merely a destination; it is a living masterpiece where the past and present coexist, creating a unique atmosphere that captivates and inspires.

The Sunday Courier, Issue No. 36, September 3–10, 1911. The theft of the Mona Lisa from the Louvre on August 21, 1911, quickly became a global media sensation, transforming the painting into a world-famous icon. Newspapers around the world, including The New York Times, covered what was widely described as the “art heist of the century,” publishing dramatic headlines and detailed reports on the investigation, the search for suspects, and the painting’s eventual recovery in 1913

The Mona Lisa: a timeless encounter

From Renaissance mastery to modern wonder, exploring the mystery behind the world’s most famous painting

12 September 2026

Orsolya Antoni

When I traveled to Paris, one of the main highlights of my visit was seeing the Mona Lisa in person. Standing in the crowded gallery of the Louvre Museum, surrounded by people from all over the world, I finally came face-to-face with one of the most famous paintings ever created. Despite its relatively small size, the painting has an undeniable presence. It felt surreal to witness a work of art that has fascinated humanity for over 500 years.

Living with the dead / Indonesian death rituals

 

The Ma'nene Ritual is a traditional ceremony in Tana Toraja where the bodies of ancestral family members are exhumed, carefully cleaned, and dressed in new clothes as a way to honor and show respect for the deceased

Living with the dead: Indonesian death rituals

The sacred rituals of Ma’nene in Tana Toraja

Orsolya Antoni

12 July 2025

The experience of losing loved ones is a universal aspect of life that we all confront. Whether it's family, friends, or acquaintances, the grief that accompanies death is something we all share. In my culture, the sorrow associated with death is profound, as we often view it as the end of existence, resulting in a cycle of tears and mourning. This perspective can create a heavy atmosphere that lingers long after a loved one has passed.

 

Tanya Gomelskaya uses rich colors and bold contrasts to enhance the visual drama of her art

A brush with emotion: the art of Tanya Gomelskaya

An artist who turns emotion into three-dimensional beauty

Orsolya Antoni

12 September 2025

In this dreamlike and hectic world, so overwhelmed by the incessant rhythm of the internet and the compulsive fascination of social media, we are ubiquitously exposed to an entire collection of bad influences that seep into our existence. However, in the midst of the chaos of this world, I stumbled upon an oasis of positive energy while scrolling randomly through Instagram. There, I discovered a great artist, Tanya Gomelskaya, whose artistic vision transcends all the traditional boundaries with her mesmerizing three-dimensional paintings. Not only is her art perception-stimulating, but it also transports viewers to a realm of a kaleidoscope of creativity and inspiration. I was attracted to her work immediately and have been a fan ever since.

Mihály Munkácsy was a Hungarian painter. He earned international reputation with his genre pictures and large-scale biblical paintings

The emotional legacy of Mihály Munkácsy

A glimpse into Hungarian art and history

Orsolya Antoni

12 June 2025

I would like to discuss the renowned Hungarian painter Mihály Munkácsy, whose influence permeates the lives of many Hungarians. Munkácsy, known for his remarkable talent and the profound emotional depth in his artworks, has left an indelible mark on Hungarian culture. His paintings often depicted scenes of everyday life and historical moments, resonating with the experiences of ordinary people and moving them with their emotional depth.

The Starry Night, June 1889. Museum of Modern Art, New York

My connection to Van Gogh’s Starry Night

Finding peace, beauty, and meaning in Vincent van Gogh’s turbulent world and luminous brushstrokes

Orsolya Antoni

12 February 2026

Vincent van Gogh holds a special place as my second favorite Dutch painter, celebrated for his emotionally charged and vibrant use of color. His iconic masterpiece, 'The Starry Night,' has been a constant source of inspiration in my life, with its swirling skies and deep emotional resonance captivating my imagination. Van Gogh's remarkable talent for capturing the beauty of his world, often reflecting his own struggles, strikes a chord within me. 'The Starry Night' is a culmination of his artistic journey, a representation of his unique style and emotional depth. Each time I gaze at his artwork, I uncover new details and layers that invite me to reflect and delve deeper, ensuring his presence remains a significant part of my artistic journey.

Gallery employees pose with Love is in the Bin by Banksy, photo by Facundo Arrizabalaga/EPA

Banksy's 'Love is in the Bin': art vs. commercialization

Exploring the impact and meaning behind Banksy's most controversial artwork

Orsolya Antoni
12 January 2025

Banksy is my favourite street artist because of his unique way of addressing everyday life and conflicts. When I was working for a very well-known auction house, I had the opportunity to see some of his work, especially 'Girl with Balloon,' which was shredded at the auction and renamed to 'Love is in the Bin.' This incident, where the artwork self-destructed after being sold, was a bold and intriguing statement by Banksy. It was a direct challenge to the commercialization of art, a practice that often places more value on the price tag than the artistic message and the value we place on it. This incident not only made headlines but also sparked a global conversation about the true value of art and the role of the art market in determining it. The shredded 'Girl with Balloon' became a new piece of art, 'Love is in the Bin,' which further emphasized Banksy's critique of the art market's focus on monetary value over artistic expression.

Girl with a Pearl Earring is an oil painting by Dutch Golden Age painter Johannes Vermeer, dated c. 1665

Vermeer's art: the enigma of "Girl with the pearl earring"

Discovering the mastery of Johannes Vermeer and the allure of his iconic painting in Amsterdam

Orsolya Antoni
12 September 2024

In 2023, my good friend and I had the pleasure of seeing the Vermeer exhibition in Amsterdam. We had a lot of fun while queuing up to buy the tickets, and we met a few very unique and interesting people. Among them was an 85-year-old Brazilian man, a former musician who now spends his time traveling the world. He had a special promise to keep for his granddaughter—a visit to the Vermeer exhibition in Amsterdam. His story was fascinating, and it made us wonder about the connection he saw between his life, his music, and Vermeer's art. This encounter, along with the excitement of seeing Vermeer's art up close, made the experience even more memorable.

 

Pink Japanese lanterns adorn the vibrant cherry blossom trees in full bloom against the backdrop of Tokyo, Japan's picturesque landscape

Embracing imperfection: celebrating Sakura 

Exploring Hanami: Japan's Wabi-Sabi tradition of cherry blossom festivities

12 JULY 2024, 

ORSOLYA ANTONI

One of my favourite seasons is spring. It signifies the beginning of a fresh new year for me. When everything comes back to life, the trees are in full bloom, and the ground is covered in nice green grass, it's a time for new beginnings and new lives. There's a certain magic in the air when warm sunshine, a gentle breeze, and fresh air combine. Imagine experiencing this in Japan, where Sakura, the most enchanting season of the year, unfolds. The beauty of Sakura is a sight to behold, a spectacle that draws you in and leaves you in awe.

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.