Story Behind the Artwork
The Wealth of Aladdin: A Treasure of Memories and Emotions
Sometimes, the most unexpected moments become symbols of our lives. That’s what happened with this photograph, which now holds a special place in my living room. It is not just a memory of the majestic fjords of Norway, but also of the people whose generosity and support made the impossible possible.
It all began in Ålesund, where, together with our guide Ainar, we set off on a journey to capture the most spectacular landscapes of the region. It was a perfect day, filled with inspiration and photography... until, on our way back, the ferry we needed to cross broke down. Our ship was scheduled to depart in just one hour, but we were over two hours away.
Ainar did everything he could—he tried to hire a speedboat, looked for other solutions, but in the middle of the night, no one could help us. There was only one option left: to contact the captain of our ship and request a delay in departure. Against all odds, he agreed. Now the race against time had truly begun.
Ainar drove as fast as he could, but halfway through, his electric car ran out of battery. That’s when his wife, Diana, came to the rescue. She met us halfway, picked us up, and took us straight to the port. We arrived with just three minutes to spare before the ship's departure. It was a moment of adrenaline, tension, and immense gratitude—something I will never forget.
I hung The Wealth of Aladdin in my home not just for its beauty, but because it represents luck, human connection, and the incredible way the universe sometimes reaches out in our most desperate moments. Every time I look at it, I remember the kindness of Ainar and Diana, the understanding of the captain and the PONANT crew, and the importance of those who support us when we need it most. This photograph does more than decorate a space—it reflects the depth, timelessness, and value of every moment lived.