My essentials: Vania Goshe’s cultural picks

About  

I am a Bulgarian-born artist based in Malta since 2008. Working across various media, I blend realism and abstraction to create vibrant, uplifting compositions inspired by nature and flowers. I am currently presenting my 20 solo exhibition, BOTANICA ANIMA – The Soul of Flowers, at Christine X Gallery. Through my art, I aim to evoke joy, harmony, optimism, and reflection.

Book

One of the most interesting books I have read in the last year is I Live in Light by Itzhak Gozes, a biographical novel about the renowned Bulgarian artist Nikola Manev, who lived and worked in France. I was fascinated by the stories about his life, artistic journey, and dedication to painting. One quote that stayed with me was: “If my paintings bring joy around the world, it is because I am a Bulgarian artist.” The book was especially meaningful because I also created a documentary film about him, titled Manev.

Film

One of the films I watched recently was Apex, a gripping survival thriller. The most memorable scene is the high-tension cat-and-mouse chase between Sasha and Ben. What makes this sequence so powerful is its chilling psychological build-up and excellent use of sound, which heightens the suspense and keeps viewers on edge. The film combines action, tension, and atmosphere very effectively. I found it highly entertaining and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys thrillers with strong suspense and dramatic storytelling.

Internet and TV

One of the things that has recently caught my attention on the internet is the growing number of virtual museum tours and online art platforms. They allow people to explore world-famous galleries, discover new artists, and experience art from anywhere in the world. As an artist, I find them both inspiring and educational. I enjoy learning about different artistic styles, techniques, and creative processes, which often spark new ideas for my own work.

Music

I choose the song Bangaranga by DARA because I enjoy its upbeat energy, catchy melody, and positive message. The song is about empowerment, freedom, and finding joy even in difficult moments. I am also proud that a Bulgarian artist won the Eurovision Song Contest, bringing international recognition to Bulgarian music. Bangaranga is inspiring, uplifting, and full of vibrant energy, which is why it has become one of my favourite songs.

Place

I would love to visit Monet’s Garden in Giverny, France. Claude Monet is my favourite artist, and seeing the place that inspired so many of his masterpieces would be a dream come true. I would like to experience the atmosphere, colours, and light that influenced his paintings and walk through the beautiful gardens he created. I believe it would be an inspiring and unforgettable experience, both personally and artistically.