How has living on the island influenced your creative process?
The island has influenced my art in profound ways, shaping not only the aesthetic but also the pace and intention behind my creative process.
Having been born on the Mediterranean coast, I’ve always felt a deep connection to the sea, the landscape, and the warm light. Being surrounded by the beauty of Mallorca, the organic shapes, textures, and muted tones found in nature inevitably find their way into my designs and artwork. It’s a constant source of inspiration, complemented by the island’s vibrant and diverse creative community.
Moving here from London years ago made me appreciate the beauty of slow living. The island has taught me how to be more present, how to cherish the simplicity of daily moments. This shift in lifestyle has deeply influenced my creative process. I no longer feel the rush of the city; instead, I can take my time, allowing ideas to evolve naturally. It’s a more mindful, intentional approach to creation—one that values the journey as much as the final piece.
Can you describe a day in your life as an artist on the island?
My days as an artist on the island vary quite a bit, which keeps things interesting and creative. I usually start with a slow morning—having tea and either journaling or reading in bed. Then I’ll tackle some emails and plan the day ahead, or I might head to a barre class followed by coffee with friends.
Some days are spent painting in my home studio, while others are focused on client work, like creative direction or brand design. I also dedicate time to creating content for my own platforms. I love the freedom of structuring my day, making time to cook meals, and following little routines that help me find balance in my self-employed life.
One of my favorite weekend rituals is cycling to the beach with my boyfriend for breakfast at our local café, followed by a dip in the ocean. We make it a point to leave our phones at home. We also enjoy wandering through farmers’ markets, especially on sunny days.
Can you share a story behind one of your favourite pieces inspired by island life?
One of my favourite pieces inspired by island life is my signature watercolor beaches, which were actually the first to gain attention. I created the first one a few years ago in my previous house by the coast, before Nicieza Studios even existed.
I vividly remember one day sitting on the street, trying to sell them, while my boyfriend kept bringing me coffee and staying optimistic. I didn’t sell any that day, but now, these pieces are scattered around the world, and it brings me so much joy to see how far they’ve come. It’s a beautiful reminder of how everything started and the journey I’ve been on since then.
What are your 5 top wardrobe staples?
My top five wardrobe staples are a pair of long linen trousers, well-fitted jeans, a crisp white shirt, a classic tee, and either loafers or flip-flops, depending on the season. For colder months, I always reach for a timeless long coat.
Do you believe fashion can be a form of self-expression like your art? If so, how?
Absolutely. I believe fashion is a powerful form of self-expression, just like my art. A great example is my “Artist and Artwork Series,” where I draw parallels between the outfits I wear and the artworks I create, inspired by the combination of garments. I enjoy being playful in both fashion and art, using them as visual storytelling tools to present different facets of myself and my creativity.
What designers or brands inspire your fashion sense?
At the top of my list is The Row. I love how their Instagram blends artworks with their garments—it’s a dream of mine to have one of my pieces featured on their profile.
Other brands that inspire me include Matteau, Skall Studio, Byredo, Khaite, and By Malene Birger. Malene’s brand is particularly special to me because she also lives in Mallorca and is an artist. I admire her balanced lifestyle between the island and Copenhagen, which is something I aspire to achieve as well, as I love summer there.
Do you see any parallels between how you curate your wardrobe and how you create your art?
Yes, absolutely—there are many parallels between how I curate my wardrobe and how I create my art. In both, I gravitate toward timeless, natural tones and elegant, minimalist compositions. I also prioritize quality over quantity, whether it's choosing the clothes I wear or selecting materials for my art. Just as I invest in well-made pieces for my wardrobe, I carefully source high-quality materials like cotton paper or vintage Mallorcan linen fabrics I find in local markets for my artwork. Both processes are about crafting something enduring and thoughtful.
What role does food and culture play in your creative projects?
Food and culture play a significant role in my creative projects. I haven't shared much about this on my socials, but I grew up in an 18th-century house that my parents restored, where they ran various creative ventures. My father, both a chef and an artist, had a restaurant and a small art gallery in our home, so my childhood was filled with learning recipes, being creative, and constantly surrounded by artists and nature. This unique upbringing, where food, art, and culture were intertwined, has deeply influenced the way I approach my work today.
Are there any upcoming collaborations or projects you're particularly excited about?
I’m incredibly excited about several upcoming projects. This week, I’ll be visiting Morocco for the first time with the perfume brand Serge Lutens, and I couldn’t be more grateful. I’ve always felt a deep connection to scents—I've even joked that in another life, I might have been a perfumer—so this collaboration feels especially meaningful.
There’s also another major project in the works that I can’t reveal just yet, but it’s truly a dream come true. It will allow me to expand my skills in furniture and interior design, as well as dive deeper into gardening, something I’ve always wanted to return to. I’ll be able to share more details in early November!
Do you remember a treasured or sentimental piece of jewellery that someone gave to you? Or that you bought for yourself?
One of my most treasured pieces of jewelry is a small gold Victorian cross that was passed down to me from my grandmother. I loved her deeply, and this piece holds immense sentimental value, as it not only connects me to her but also symbolizes the place where I was raised in northern Spain. It’s a beautiful reminder of my roots and the bond we shared.
CARLA'S PICKS
