The creative dynamo behind contemporary art gallery Can Garita, Sarah Suco Torres is a gallerist, art curator, and restless soul whose journey has taken her from the cosmopolitan heart of Brussels to the bustling art scenes of Paris and New York. But despite Mallorca’s allure, it was Ibiza — a place with smaller scale, island intimacy, and a rhythm far from city life — that ultimately won her over. In this candid interview with “Humans of Mallorca”, Sarah shares the experiences and instincts that led her to Ibiza, her vision for nurturing contemporary art through artist residencies, and the “inner fire and passion” that propels her relentless pursuit of creativity.

Where were you born, and what were your childhood ambitions? 

I was born in Brussels, Belgium. As a child, I dreamed of becoming either a lawyer or a vet for horses — quite original, I know!

Could you tell us about your education and career path? 

For practical reasons, I studied Visual Communication and Philosophy in Brussels at ESA Saint-Luc, followed by Art Direction in Paris at Penninghen. Though I dreamed of studying in NYC, it didn’t work out. My love for art and organization led me to gallery work, and internships at Perrotin (Paris), Marian Goodman, and Gagosian (New York) set me on my way. Working with established artists, solving challenges for exhibitions, and the energy of “white cube architecture” made it all exciting and fulfilling.

Where do you live now, and what drew you to Ibiza?  

Currently, I live in Ibiza where I love the vernacular architecture and the landscape. After my first stay in Ibiza, I was enchanted by the architecture, where function and symbol merge. Honestly, I never planned to move to Ibiza because I was a “city person” who loved a faster pace but in the end I think the island has chosen me! Architecture and art have always been important for me, and they can’t live without each other. 

Have you been to Mallorca? 

Yes, I’ve visited three times, and I admire the elegant architecture. Initially, I considered moving there from Paris but found the island too big; it lost some of that intimate island feel I was looking for. After living in NYC and in Paris for my jobs, I was looking for something very different, smaller… So Ibiza was actually a good option.

What’s most fulfilling about your work? 

In roles like artist liaison, curator, and writer, meeting passionate people is key. The lack of limits in this field allows me to constantly push boundaries and work with heart. I love brainstorming new ideas with artists and developing unique communication for exhibitions. It’s challenging but rewarding — art is more than a job for me; it’s a lifestyle.

What challenges have you faced in your career? 

Starting out in Paris and New York was tough since I knew no one in the art world, but my determination kept me going. Later, when I launched the first edition of Can Garita in Ibiza, it was the same thrill of breaking new ground in an unknown place. This “conquest” of unfamiliar terrain excites me.

Have there been moments when you felt unsure about the future? 

Surprisingly, I’ve always had a clear sense of direction. Passion drives me, and I think that’s essential. I rarely feel “lost” — for me, it’s about learning from mistakes and moving forward. Maybe I have an “American mindset,” where I believe that if you know what you want deeply enough, you’re already halfway there.

What are you most proud of? 

That inner fire and passion — it keeps everything exciting. Without it, life would seem very boring.

What are your upcoming projects and future goals? 

In 2025, I’m developing the next art residency program at my company, Las Cicadas, where six international artists will work in Ibiza for five weeks. I’m also preparing a new exhibition for Can Garita, set to open in June during the CAN Art Fair in Ibiza. Long term, I dream of establishing a small hotel that doubles as an artist residency. Inspired by the Chinati Foundation in Marfa, I want to create a nurturing space for artists to develop their work slowly and meaningfully. 

Text by Anastasia Barysheva

Images: Valentine Riccardi; Rebecca Fanuele