Mina Barrio
We recently caught up with Mina Barrio, a visual artist, content creator (and tokyobike rider) to talk about work, life and her current project - an online school for creatives, El Cole.
Q. Tell us a bit about what you do and what inspires your work. What do you enjoy most about day-to-day life?
I’ve struggled with this question: what do I enjoy the most? The answer used to be clear - taking photos! Being a product photographer and art director was my passion but after 500 shoots in 10 years I was suffering from burnout. Now I'm searching for joy in everything I do.
I love seeing other people’s creations, studying and writing but also sharing what I learn - whether life hacks or audiovisual lessons, which I share through Melon School (my online school!).
Q. Where do you live, and what are the places or spaces that make you happy?
I live in Seville, in the south of Spain, in the most wonderful region in the universe: Andalusia (home to the flamenco dancer).
Working in the creative industry usually means having to move to Madrid or Barcelona BUT I’m proving you can do it from here.
I really appreciate beauty in places and spaces whether natural or man made - finding beauty is what moves me and probably why I put a lot of time and energy into my studuo and apartment.
I also enjoy the day to day - visiting local markets or bakeries. Tip! If you ever visit Seville buy pickled goodies at Doña Aceituna on Feria Street, or my grandma’s favorite caramelized nuts at the kiosk by Las Setas.
Q. Is there a special place you go when you need inspiration?
When I need inspiration, I mostly reread. I go back to books that deeply impacted me and that I’ve highlighted from top to bottom, or I reread my own journals. They work like instant idea triggers, and as soon as I start reading, I start writing like I’m possessed.
My favourite spot to read and write is María Luisa Park. It sounds idyllic and almost unreal, but I highly recommend it because it’s also the most budget-friendly plan ever: grab a book, a notebook, your bike, a bottle of water, and head to the prettiest park in your city. I don’t know why we don’t prioritise these kinds of plans and make time for them weekly. We see someone reading in a park in a photo or video and think it’s just for show, but we don’t consider it as a realistic habit. Seriously, try it—it’s quality of life without overconsumption. What could be better?
Q. A place you love going to just to relax and disconnect?
A cozy cafe with a warm drink. My favorites are Ofelia Bakery, Casa Orzáez and Thank You Mother (for its pancakes, waffles, and dairy-free French toasts). Or a stop at Virgin Coffee then sitting in Las Setas under the sun, just people-watching.
Q. A restaurant or iconic spot where you always enjoy sharing a meal.
Time for a mini guide to eating in Seville:
For breakfast : The cafés I mentioned above or some good churros from a classic spot like the one by the Andalusian Parliament. Alternatively grab a mollete (a soft local bread) with ham at Picnic, a café in Arenal Market.
For lunch : papas aliñás at Er Caserío, the montaíto de pringá at Bodeguita Romero, and the roast chicken salad at Pikantón. From Veganí, everything.
For dinner : Moon is my go-to Korean spot, and Hiyoki for sushi. Supreme.
Q. What does cycling mean to you, and what are your favourite routes?
Cycling is a mode of transport that relaxes me and Seville is PERFECT for biking - it’s completely flat and has bike lanes connecting every neighbourhood.
As a teenager, I rode my bike to school every day, but when I moved out on my own, I completely abandoned it.
Getting back on a bike after years was a strange feeling. At first, I was a little scared and unsure of myself, nervous about riding in traffic where there weren’t bike lanes. But after repeating the same routes over and over, I built my “safe paths,” and now I feel completely different - biking makes me feel free.
I don’t have to rely on the bus being on time or finding parking. I only depend on my own legs. Feeling the wind on my face, the sun, staying fully awake while observing my surroundings - it connects me to everything around me. It’s changed my daily habits, no exaggeration.
My favourite routes are through the city. I know most people love biking in the countryside (and I get it!), but I prefer walking in nature and cycling through parks and neighbourhoods - to dance class, the stationery shop, a café, or ceramics class…
Q. A must-do bike ride in your city?
Without a doubt, riding along the river at sunset is my favorite - cruising down the riverside near the city center, passing La Cartuja, Triana Bridge, and Torre del Oro… HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
