For Carolina Adán Caro, art is more than a career — it’s a way of life. Seventeen years ago, the Madrid-born artist traded cityscapes for the sun-soaked streets of Mallorca, and ever since, she’s been making her mark on the island — one vibrant brushstroke at a time. “Give the island time, and it will give you what you need,” she was once told, and that advice couldn’t have rung truer. “And it did — I found exactly what I was looking for here,” she says.
Carolina’s passion for art started long before she arrived in Mallorca. “I don’t remember a time when I wasn’t painting,” she recalls. After formally training in fine arts at the Universities of Madrid and Barcelona, she moved to Mallorca soon after finishing her studies. What began as a romantic move evolved into a flourishing artistic career.
Her career took a significant turn when a simple gesture for a friend led to the creation of her brand, Art is Life. “One of my best friends was going through emotional difficulties, and I painted something to give her positive energy. That’s how Art is Life was born,” Carolina explains. This moment of inspiration not only helped her friend but also set Carolina on a new creative path.
Being a full-time artist comes with challenges, especially when working independently. Carolina manages all aspects of her life and career herself. “Creating art is more than a job — it’s a lifestyle. For me, art isn’t work — it’s part of who I am,” she says. While her primary income comes from her artwork, she also teaches at a university in Mallorca. “Teaching is a hobby, but my art sustains me,” she adds. This balance allows her to stay connected with the community while nurturing her passion.
Art is Life is more than just a brand — it’s a philosophy Carolina lives by. Her art is spontaneous and vibrant, characterized by quick, expressive brushstrokes that breathe life into her subjects. Through her work, she encourages people to connect with her pieces in their own unique ways. “My art is about capturing moments and letting people give the piece their own meaning,” she says. For Carolina, the beauty of art lies in its ability to evoke diverse emotions and interpretations in every viewer.
The success of Art is Life has established Carolina as a notable figure on Mallorca’s art scene. Her artwork is popping up all over the island, and she continues to expand her brand, reaching audiences both locally and internationally. Today, Art is Life is a registered brand in Spain and Europe, symbolizing her dedication and creative passion.
Mallorca has become more than just a home for Carolina. “Mallorca has given me everything I was looking for,” she reflects. From its breathtaking landscapes to its close-knit community, the island provides her with the ideal environment to live and create. For her, Mallorca is not just a place to live — it’s a sanctuary. “Mallorca for me is peace and tranquility,” she says. The island’s natural beauty and serene atmosphere have allowed her to flourish both personally and professionally.
Ultimately, Carolina’s story is one of finding home in an unexpected place. “If I hadn’t been born in Madrid, I would have moved to Mallorca anyway,” she admits. The island has become her home and the canvas for her life’s work. As Mallorca continues to evolve, Carolina remains deeply rooted in its beauty, drawing inspiration from its landscapes and people.
Text by Dasha Bikmansurova
