Artist and designer Laila Gohar sees her work as a form of world-building akin to religion, creating immersive spaces that offer meaning, wonder and escape. Raised in Egypt in a spiritually rich Muslim household, she grew up surrounded by everyday references to God, Judgment Day and mystery. That early exposure to enchantment, along with Egypt’s layered history and symbolism, shaped her belief that there is more to life than what meets the eye.

Now based in the United States, Gohar creates surreal, food-based installations and dining experiences designed to awaken imagination and delight. She describes beauty as her 'North Star' and even her 'God,' arguing that it has the power to guide, heal and perhaps save humanity. Her work, including a pavilion of hand-grown sugar crystals in Uzbekistan, transforms familiar materials into fantastical environments that invite curiosity and childlike wonder.

The newsletter also highlights tensions between Pope Leo and President Trump over the war in Iran, with the pope condemning the manipulation of religion for political and military aims. Other items explore shifting religious attitudes among young Americans, cultural debates about faith and politics, and the spiritual undertones of recent films and public events, including reflections from astronauts returning from space.