by Steven Seedo
PARAMARIBO — “It means a lot to me that I can share a part of my life with others in this way. I find it very special that there are people who enjoy taking a look into my world, reading my stories and trying my recipes.” Visual artist Pearl Brunings contradicts this the True Time about her book ‘Living like a Pearl in Sweden’, which will be published on November 1.
What started as a digital recipe book has grown into a more extensive, printed book with 24 recipes, personal stories and numerous photos. Brunings takes the reader into her new life in Sweden, where love, art, nature and good food come together.
“Food connects people. It brings them together and creates beautiful moments“
Brunings became more famous through the Dutch television program ‘Winter Vol Liefde’, in which she found love with Robin Koman. In her book she gives a glimpse into their house in Sweden – now that the cameras have disappeared. From a cup of coffee with a view of the lake to a meal for the people she loves: Brunings finds happiness in the little things.
She talks about her love for her husband, her connection with Sweden and the inspiration she gets from the lakes, forests and changing seasons of Scandinavia. She also takes the reader to her studio, where impressions from her environment find their way onto the canvas. She also pays attention to Swedish traditions and the culture of her new living environment.
To eat
Brunings also follows her own instincts in the kitchen. Her recipes combine flavors from different cultures, with room for ease, fun and a personal twist. These are dishes to try, share and enjoy together. “But perhaps what I like most is that I can make people happy with good food. Food connects people. It brings them together and creates beautiful moments. The idea that my recipes will soon be on the table in other people’s homes and that people will enjoy them makes me happy.”
Brunings does not yet know whether more books will follow. “I’ve always enjoyed writing and have plenty of ideas, so I certainly wouldn’t rule it out. But for now, I just want to enjoy this book and see how it is received.”
(Un)familiarity
Brunings (1969) is a visual artist. In Suriname she had her own communications agency and wrote columns for two magazines. She exhibited in Suriname, the Netherlands, Belgium and Sweden.
In 2025 she left Paramaribo for the Swedish village of Unnaryd, where she lives and works. Although Brunings has now built her life in Sweden, she still has to find her niche there, especially as a visual artist. “Here in Sweden no one knows who I am.”
