In 1998, my girlfriend Martina and I visited the island of Alonissos for the first time. Eight years later, we had the chance to call one of the enchanting houses of Alonissos Homes our holiday retreat—our home away from home—for the very first time. The impressions of those days were so beautiful and lasting that we decided to return to the island every year from then on. Since then, it has become a cherished tradition to stay in a different house each time, as each one has its own unique and unmistakable charm.

While Martina loses herself in her books, I began to capture the beauty of the houses and the distinctive charm of the island through drawing. Sketching allows me to convey Alonissos’ special atmosphere: the gentle light, the rhythm of the sea along the rocky shores, and the singular character of each house.

One day, Olyvia happened to catch a glimpse of my drawings—and from that moment on, everything took its course. A connection emerged between my art and her warm hospitality, a bond that has continued to grow ever since. And so, our relationship with Alonissos and with Olyvia’s houses has become a story that we are delighted to keep writing—and keep drawing.

More examples of my work at https://www.instagram.com/tobiklingen/