Mica Middelmann’s life has always been in motion: born in Düsseldorf, raised in Mallorca, shaped by studies in Madrid and eleven formative years in Vienna. But every step, every city, every creative turn eventually led her back to the island. Today, together with Ana Trujillo she is the co-founder of La Protectora, a studio-shop where contemporary design meets handcrafted calm, where makers and ideas gather and grow.
“I’ve lived in cities I love,” she says, “but Mallorca is where my soul breathes.”

Tell us a little about your early life and family.

I was born in Düsseldorf because my mum was close to giving birth and my parents decided to stay in Germany until I arrived. But my dad was already working in Mallorca, so when I was four months old, we moved here. Mallorca is my real home.

My dad worked in tourism and aviation, and he always showed me what determination and vision look like. My mum worked alongside him but also created a home where everything felt calm and cared for. They taught me roots, values, and trust. I always knew that even if I fell, there was a place to land and rebuild. That kind of security lets you take risks.

You studied in several cities. How did that shape you?

I moved around quite a bit: Madrid, Palma, Vienna. Each place gave me something different. Vienna especially became a long chapter. I lived there for eleven years. Back then, Mallorca felt too small; I felt trapped on the island. But when I came back to Mallorca in 2018, something shifted. I no longer felt “trapped.” Now I wake up and feel grateful for the sea, the light, the rhythm here. I don’t know if I’ll stay forever, but right now it feels exactly right.

What did you imagine yourself doing when you were younger?

I wanted to be a war journalist. I think it came from the books and films I absorbed, the idea of being where history was happening and uncovering stories.

How did you find your professional path?

I started studying Tourism and PR, but after six months I knew it wasn’t for me. I needed creativity. So I switched to graphic design and fell in love with it. Later on, I studied jewelry design, something I always dreamed of but never thought could be work. In 2018, I created my jewelry brand, and now I combine both: jewelry, graphic design, creative direction, event design. They complement each other beautifully.

And how did La Protectora come to life?

La Protectora was an idea long before it was a place. I always imagined a collaborative creative space, but its form was blurry. Sometimes I imagined it as a café, other times a huge atelier full of machines, or even a mix of everything. It wasn’t tied to a specific location. Then, by chance, I ran into Ana at the airport. We already knew each other from markets, and as we talked, the idea started to take shape. Step by step, it became La Protectora CoArtisan.

Now it’s a space where handcrafted brands meet, where people can exchange ideas, learn the stories behind products, and experience creativity up close — whether through workshops, bespoke pieces, or simply conversations. It’s not static; it’s alive, always evolving with the people and brands that are part of it.

What do you enjoy most about your work?

That it never stands still. Every project is new. I love starting with a concept and giving it form, whether that becomes a piece of jewelry, a visual identity, or an entire event.

What does a typical day look like for you?

I wake up early, walk or run with my dog Duna near Bellver Castle. Then breakfast, emails, planning. I go to La Protectora, and the day shifts depending on what’s needed: jewelry at the bench, design work on the computer, meeting people who walk into the shop. I usually finish around 19:00, maybe have a glass of wine with a friend, then home, bed, and a book to wind down.

Do you remember your first major professional success?

Yes. I was part of the studio that designed the Vienna Philharmonic’s summer concert stage at Schönbrunn. I handled all the graphic elements. Seeing my work come to life on such a scale was incredibly exciting.

And the difficult moments?

Building a business from scratch is never easy. There were moments when I had to cut back, focus only on work, and put aside everything else. Self-doubt was often there too — wondering if I’d chosen the right path, if things would work out. The support of family and friends carried me through. They’ve always believed in me — even at times when I didn’t believe in myself. That belief gave me the strength to keep going.

What are you most proud of?

Not one moment, but the journey — the small wins, the breakthroughs, the moments that pushed me forward. Each one has played a part in bringing me where I am today.

What’s your view on the current debates about tourism in Mallorca?

I think the issue is serious and needs to be addressed by the tourism industry itself. Profit alone can’t be the main driver; there has to be balance. At the same time, I don’t believe protests that target tourists are the solution. Tourism is deeply woven into our economy, directly and indirectly. Extremes on either side rarely solve anything. We need thoughtful, balanced solutions that ensure sustainability while respecting both locals and visitors.

What makes Mallorca distinct for you?

The sea, the light, the nature, and that rhythm of life that makes me grateful every day.

What are your plans for this year?

A few small trips. And continuing to establish La Protectora as the go-to place in Palma for handcrafted local brands.

And your longer-term goal?

To love what I do, to enjoy the world around me, to find balance between work and life, and to build a way of working that allows me to travel freely and stay unattached to one place. To remain a free spirit.

How do you imagine Mallorca in 2040?

I hope by 2040 Mallorca has chosen a path of sustainable tourism — where mass tourism is no longer the model. I’d like to see the island gain a reputation for culture, creativity, and quality. I’d love to see more opportunities for young artists and local talent, and for Mallorca to grow as a cultural hub as much as a holiday destination.

On November 27, the shop La Protectora turns one year old. The birthday celebration will take place from 18:30 to 21:30 at Carrer de la Protectora 6, 07012, Palma. Registration via the link.