Anna Devís & Daniel Rueda
Anna Devís and Daniel Rueda are Spanish photographers known for their playful, story-driven imagery shaped by their architecture background. We spoke to them to find out more about their creative process and life with their tokyobikes.
Q. What do you do, and how do you find inspiration in your day-to-day life?
We’re Anna Devís and Daniel Rueda (also known as @anniset and @drcuerda), an art duo telling visual stories using natural light, geometry, colour, and a touch of humour.
Like many artists, our inspiration can come from almost anywhere. But because we’re both trained architects, architecture has always been our most profound and consistent source of inspiration.
Although we no longer design buildings, our architectural background still shapes how we create images. Back when we were still students, our journey began by photographing buildings and public spaces that caught our eye. Even then, we noticed a disconnect between the city, its structures, and the people who inhabit them. That’s what led us to start adding humour and a human touch to invite others to see architecture in a new light: approachable, playful, and full of personality.
These days, our work is less about documenting the world and more about building it, quite literally. We don’t rely on Photoshop or AI; each of our images is crafted entirely in-camera using handmade sets and practical effects. We design and create the spaces our ideas and stories live in, which makes the process just as meaningful to us as the final result —something architecture taught us well.
The moment we start pedalling, there’s a shift: tension fades, the breeze kicks in, and before we know it, we’re smiling again!
Q. Where do you live, and what places or spaces make you happy?
We live in Valencia, Spain. Anna was born here, and I (Daniel) moved here to study architecture, which is also where we met. Even though most of our clients are based abroad, we’ve never really considered moving. This city isn’t just home; it’s a big reason why we’re able to do what we do.
We work mostly outdoors using natural light, so good weather is crucial, and Valencia’s weather is a dream for that. It’s sunny almost year-round, which doesn’t just help with shooting, it keeps our spirits up too. Creativity definitely flows better with a bit of vitamin D.
One of our favourite places is the Turia Park, a former riverbed that now stretches through the whole city like a giant green artery. We live just a few pedals away, and though it’s in the middle of the city, it’s peaceful: no traffic sounds, just kids playing, people exercising, and friends catching up on the grass.
Another place that makes us really happy is our home, a bright apartment with colourful Mosaico de Nolla tile floors that we recently refurbished. Since the pandemic, it’s where we live and work when we’re not out shooting. It’s also where we hang out with Siri (not Apple’s assistant, but our adorable cat).
Every object here tells a story and was chosen with great care, including our tokyobikes, which have their own dedicated spot by the entrance. They’re not just our main way of getting around the city; they’re also beautifully designed pieces that make us smile every time we walk past them.
Q. What does cycling mean to you, and where do you enjoy riding?
Cycling is our main way of getting around the city. Valencia is mostly flat and, like I said earlier, blessed with great weather nearly all year, so it’s the perfect place to ride. But beyond being practical, cycling has become something almost therapeutic for us. When we’re feeling stuck or stressed, hopping on the bike has this magical ability to reset everything. The moment we start pedalling, there’s a shift: tension fades, the breeze kicks in, and before we know it, we’re smiling again!
There are plenty of places we love riding in Valencia. One of the best things about living here is that you can explore the whole city without ever getting off your bike, thanks to its many dedicated bike lanes. But if I had to choose just one, I’d head straight to the Turia Park again.
By the end of it you’ll find the City of Arts and Sciences, a cultural and scientific complex designed by architect Santiago Calatrava. It feels like something from another planet: bold, white, futuristic structures surrounded by palm trees and lush greenery. The contrast between the sharp architecture and the natural landscape is incredibly unique; and experiencing it all by bike makes it even more special.
The project might not be to everyone’s liking for a lot of different reasons, but it’s become an undeniable symbol of the city of Valencia. Whether you’re into architecture or not, it’s a must-visit. And to end on a fun note: part of Andor season 2 was filmed right there — so if you’re a Star Wars fan, you’re in for a treat!
