Why are so many artistic people from around the world attracted to live and work here on Ibiza? As far back as the 1930’s this island has had a magnetic attraction for creative people, and that tradition continues stronger than ever today. We are home to a wide variety of talented artists in various pursuits: painters, sculptors, writers, musicians, dancers, designers, actors, singers, photographers, et al. What is it about this relatively small island that makes it so inspirational for artistic expression? Is it the extraordinary natural beauty and the amazing light? Maybe the great diversity of cultures is what stimulates and enhances the creative process? Certainly the tranquillity of being able to work in a peaceful environment that is close to nature is a factor. Each of these things helps to make Ibiza a wonderful place for artists, yet many of these advantages can also be found in other places. So how can we explain the unique magnetism of Ibiza? Perhaps tracing the evolution of artistic presence on the island will give us some clues.

It is hard to imagine now, but for most of its history Ibiza had been an insular agrarian society. This began to change in the 1930’s when artists and writers from Germany came here as a refuge from the suppression of art under the Nazis. It was a perfect place to hide away from that madness, and you could live well for almost no money. This was the nucleus of an artistic colony that began to expand at the end of World War II. Ibiza was virtually unknown to most people in the 1950’s, but an ever-growing contingent of adventurous writers, sculptors, painters, poets and free spirits of all kinds found their way to this peaceful haven. They were attracted by the stunning natural beauty, the amazing Mediterranean light and the friendly local people. 

But perhaps the most important factor that brought them to this strange and wonderful island was the freedom to live and create in a beautiful place without the rules, boundaries and expectations of their home countries. That feeling of freedom is what also attracted the next wave of artists to the island. From the mid-’60s through the ‘70’s, young hippies and hip celebrities were drawn to what was happening on Ibiza. They brought with them many new forms of artistic creativity ranging from rock music to pop art. These fresh energies blended well with the existing community of artists, and the result was a thriving art scene that was continually evolving.

In the ensuing decades Ibiza became a major tourist destination, with a reputation as the place where you could go to feel free. Many came here just to party in the summers, but the artists among them found that the island touched them on a deeper level. Ibiza was filled with interesting people who had come here seeking the freedom to choose whom they wanted to be, and how they wanted to live. This resonated with the artists’ way of life, and they felt Ibiza calling to them to stay here. The combination of freedom, timeless beauty and the opportunity to commune with kindred spirits was irresistible. And so they came... and continue to come... adding their gifts and talents to the special energy that is Ibiza.