Paloma Correa: ‘’Art is my life, my essence, and my way of transforming the world»

Creative director, multidisciplinary artist, and founder of the captivating universe of El Baile de les Biches, Paloma Correa invites us to explore her unique vision of art, fashion, and life. In this interview, we discover how her passion and resilience have shaped an unmistakable style, full of authenticity and boundless creativity.

Anna Masó: Paloma, how are you feeling at this point in your life? Could we say that you’re living your best creative and personal phase so far?

Paloma Correa: At this moment in my life, I’m feeling a bit anxious about launching everything I have in mind. Work-wise, I’m very happy, constantly involved in new projects and pouring my heart into my animated series, El Baile de les Biches. This project comes from a place of vulnerability, which makes it even more cherished and meaningful to me. I just want it to be out there already! Who knows? Maybe by 2025, we’ll sign with a major visual entertainment platform, and it will finally come to light. Then everyone will be able to enjoy these universes as much as I do.

This 2024 has been a year packed with projects: filming, animations, paintings… a bit of everything. Let’s say that, year after year, I find myself taking on more because there’s always that unshakable hope whispering, “Just a little more to go.” That inner voice keeps pushing me forward.

I consider myself incredibly grateful for everything I get to experience every day. Living off my art is a privilege. It has been a challenging year, like all the ones before, because every day presents a new challenge, a fresh hurdle to overcome.

AM: Barcelona is your home. What inspires you most about the city? Would you like to live elsewhere in the future, or do you feel it provides everything you need for your creativity?

PC: Barcelona is my home. My studio is here, along with my “babies” (Bu and Che), my two little kittens, who are everything to me. I adopted them after settling in Spain.

I’ve been living outside Uruguay for many years now. I’ve spent time in Argentina, Chile, France, and now Spain. Nowadays, I feel like my apartment is my true home; wherever my kittens and my art are, I’m happy.

I absolutely love Barcelona, especially its architecture. I’m certain that if Gaudí and I had lived in the same era, we would have been great friends—perhaps even creative soulmates!

I enjoy my matcha at any time of the day. At La Papa de Pau Claris, right at the corner of my home studio, I bask in the sunlight in some nearby square, always accompanied by a good book. Barcelona is such a cosmopolitan city, where you can meet people from all over the world.

Although I enjoy it as my base, I must admit I’m a Sagittarius Moon, so I have a love for adventure. For now, I’m staying here, but nothing stops me from exploring the rest of the world.

AM: If you had to describe yourself in a few words, how would you introduce yourself to someone who doesn’t know you? What aspects of your personality are essential to understanding your vision of art and life?

PC: You know, it’s either very simple… or very complicated. When people ask me this, I usually say: “I’m an artist. I do a lot of things. Want me to tell you about them?”

I start by saying I’m a director: music videos, short films, animated shorts… I also work in fashion direction, and hopefully, one day, I’ll direct a feature film. I have my own animated series, I do analog photography (120 mm and 35 mm), and I’m fascinated by anything analog.

I’m a creative director. It doesn’t matter the medium: music, clothing, a café, an artist’s tour, a festival, a book. I design in 3D, 2D, and also by hand. I started as a painter; my art began with drawing. I’ve exhibited my work many times and continue to paint. My art evolves because art grows alongside the artist. In the end, art is all about emotions.

I write, create jewelry, sculpt, paint… anything I feel like doing. I have a very creative mind. I believe artists shouldn’t limit themselves with labels. The body, mind, and soul need to express themselves, so just let it flow.

Oh, I’m sure I’m forgetting something… but I’m also a professor of creative direction. I love teaching!

AM: In your life, what do you enjoy the most? On the other hand, what aspects of your work or routine do you find most challenging or less enjoyable?

PC: My skincare routine, my homemade matcha, and cuddles with my cats… these are the things I enjoy the most. Thanks to my work, I can set my own schedule, decide what time to wake up, do nothing if I want to, or go all in and give it my all.

I love my art. I am art. If you asked me to choose, I’m not sure I could do anything else. My thing is ideas—bringing them to life, making them tangible (or not), but just having them.

The most challenging part for me is starting a project. That’s the hardest. When a project lands, you have to research it, get to know it, and immerse yourself in it to truly understand it. You have to become that concept, that narrative. Once you get there, it’s smooth sailing, but the beginning is the most difficult because it’s never just one idea that comes to mind; it’s thousands, and it’s up to you to choose the right path.

AM: We know that the path of art is not easy. If you could share one piece of advice you wish you’d received at the start of your career, what would it be? How has your perspective evolved over the years?

PC: Be honest, genuine. Follow your intuition. Remember, the people you work with are not your friends. If you decide to collaborate with friends, set clear boundaries: schedules, rules, and expectations must be defined upfront.

If something makes you uncomfortable, say it. If you don’t like something, speak up. You’re in a space where respect is non-negotiable.

You’re not “expensive.” Some people simply can’t afford your work. Don’t lower yourself to match others. Let those who value you follow along. If they truly want to collaborate, they’ll figure it out. It’s not the end of the world; tomorrow brings new opportunities.

You didn’t come into this world to please everyone. You’re here to live authentically and do what you want. Listen to your inner voice—it will guide you. Not everything happens overnight.

Never hold back from doing something because you’re afraid it won’t work. Success or failure doesn’t matter as much as the attempt itself. Whether something succeeds or fails, don’t stress—you’re learning so much along the way. If something works, great, but there’s always room to improve.

Don’t let pride control you. Apologize if needed, but also know when to stop apologizing.

AM: «El Baile de les Biches» is a flagship project you’ve worked on for years. What does this universe mean to you, and how would you describe its essence to those who haven’t experienced it yet?

PC: This project holds a special place in my heart because it transformed moments of profound sadness and pain into stories brimming with hope and love.

“El Baile de les Biches” is born from a woman who lost her faith, her inner child, due to violence or abuse. Within this animated series, you’ll discover countless universes, realms that teach you how to become the best version of yourself. The main character, «Mi,» strives to be a better biche—a better version of herself. She doesn’t just say she’ll do something; she does it.

In “El Baile de les Biches,” there are no genders, no boundaries, and no violence—it doesn’t exist or get mentioned. Themes span flora and fauna, holistic teachings, meditation, yoga, reincarnation, and even death, framed as something natural and positive.

We also touch on topics like love, friendship, mental health, astronomy, mathematics, music, art, dance, and film. The aim is to talk about everything from a perspective of goodness. Imagine a world without violence—how much happier we’d all be, each in our own way, free from discrimination, war, pollution, and exploitation.

The term biche comes from the Uruguayan word for insects. In this world, les biches are creatures born from my imagination, representing resilience, life, and unconditional love.

Teaching is at the core of this project. The only way to build a better world is through learning and understanding, and this is suitable for all ages. As you grow, you comprehend more.

AM: If you could live in your artistic universe for a day, how would that day look? Where would you be, and which character from «El Baile de les Biches» would join you?

PC: I’d live at the center of the universes from my series, where all the characters coexist. It would be an incredibly creative day. I’d focus on becoming the best version of myself, mastering what I already know and learning what I don’t.

In El Baile de les Biches, no one talks about doing; they simply do.

AM: Your first collection for Mushi, «Les Biches,» was inspired by your characters. How challenging was it to translate something so visually expansive and dynamic into such a small and personal format like jewelry? Did you encounter any unexpected challenges in the process?

PC: The first collection, Les Biches, was a challenge because I wasn’t a jewelry designer. It was a completely new venture—guiding Valentina (L’Huillier, founder of Crisopeya) through the process from Spain to Chile.

It took longer than we expected, which was a challenge. It demanded more dedication, patience, and attention to detail since it was a collaboration.

Now, I’m creating my own jewelry by hand for upcoming collections. This brings me closer to the craft behind every piece. Valentina poured her heart into the Les Biches collection, and I’m grateful for her work.

I remember a colleague, Lorena, telling me:
«I don’t have the space or the budget for one of your art pieces, but a piece of jewelry is something I can carry with me wherever I go.»

That’s exactly what Les Biches are: small sculptures you can wear anywhere. Each one has a story and meaning. They’re your companions.

AM: Mushi is such a personal and unique project. Do you have plans to expand the brand? What new pieces or collections would you like to introduce? How do you envision Mushi’s growth in the coming years?

PC: Absolutely, I want Mushi to grow! Sometimes I wish it could expand faster because of everything I’ve invested in it, but I also understand it’s a process. Everything takes time, so I try to stay patient.

We launched Mushi in mid-October, and we’ve already sold more than 30% of the collection. I think we’re off to a great start! We focus on limited pieces made from noble materials, handcrafted 100%. Once they’re gone, there are no more.

Currently, I’m working on a new collection inspired by my art, but with a more conceptual and indirect language. You won’t see a biche outright, but rather the background details—the ornaments, the “filler.”

This new collection draws inspiration from one of my acrylic paintings, Nadaremos, which features 11 biches alongside various plants, some real and others reimagined. The pieces will channel the essence of coral reefs and underwater worlds, incorporating small sculptures.

If all goes well, we’ll launch the collection in Madrid by March. Like all Mushi collections, it will be limited, featuring rings, earrings, belts, chains, and more.

AM: If you had to choose one brand that completely defines your style and artistic vision, which would it be? What aspects of your creativity and philosophy do you see reflected in that brand?

PC: That’s such a complex question because, as a creative director, I draw ideas from many places, including my own.

My favorite is Simon Porte’s Jacquemus—100%, all day long. I love its simplicity and the way it operates. I’ve heard from colleagues who’ve worked with him that he’s incredibly kind, dedicated, and detail-oriented. He truly loves what he does, and it shows.

He not only integrates art into fashion design but also works with an amazing creative team. I’m certain Simon is hands-on with every aspect of his brand, like a true creative director should be—caring for his project as if it were his baby.

Jacquemus is clean and free-spirited. The brand stages shows outside of Paris, away from the chaos. Only those meant to be there, who resonate with Simon’s vibe, attend. If you don’t vibe, you don’t go.

I also admire LOEWE. I can see myself working with them. They’re so dynamic, fresh, and spontaneous. Their simplicity is complex, and their curation in art is impeccable.

The way they break molds with their campaigns—plants, sculptures, minimalist spaces that highlight both the character and the product—is brilliant. Sometimes they create intricate designs; other times, their pieces are straightforward, like their fragrances.

Jonathan Anderson’s direction is a masterpiece, and it’s no surprise he was named Designer of the Year at the British Fashion Awards. Both LOEWE and Jacquemus are pure art—dedicated to perfection from every angle.

AM: The fashion industry is undergoing significant transformations, with several creative directors leaving iconic brands. Many see 2025 as the beginning of a new generation of talents. What’s your take on these changes? Do you think fashion needs to innovate in specific areas to continue evolving?

PC: It’s necessary, and I think it’s the right thing to do.

People need rest. We change, we get bored. Even when it’s a passion, the body eventually asks for a break. Many of these creative directors dedicate years to enormous brands that are always in the spotlight—Chanel, Bottega Veneta, Burberry, Loewe… It’s intense work.

Every day, originality becomes more challenging because almost everything has already been done. That’s why it’s important to change leadership. Fresh ideas, fresh perspectives.

Someone who’s been immersed in the same environment for years might know it inside out, but they can also grow blind to certain details due to routine. A new perspective breathes life into the brand. The concept can remain the same, but the spark needs refreshing.

AM: What’s your perspective on art and AI?

PC: Art and AI are an incredible support system. I firmly believe—and know—that they make life easier for creatives.

AI helps us focus, follow through step by step, and stay organized (even though it can also be overwhelming because of its limitless potential). But ultimately, it’s your mind guiding it—you’re the one writing the prompts, so the creativity starts with you.

Technology evolves at a staggering pace every second. I’ve been working on AI-driven projects for over three years, waiting for the right moment to release them. They’re extraordinary.

New platforms emerge daily. I’m a bit of a tech enthusiast, and I do worry about the possibility of computers surpassing us someday. But if you think about it, AI has been with us for years—email, social media, algorithms, smartphones. Even your phone’s camera, with features like autofocus and light adjustments, is AI.

It’s our reality and our normality. You’ll never fully surpass the essence of art made entirely by human hands—that’s where the soul resides. But I don’t dismiss the idea that platforms like MidJourney, OpenAI, Kaiber, and Runway might one day develop something akin to a soul.

AM: 2025 is just around the corner. What are your new creative goals for the year? Is there a project or collaboration you’re particularly excited about?

PC: Yes, and I’m so excited! I’m someone who truly enjoys the passage of time—it brings more wisdom, more projects, and bigger opportunities.

My main goal for 2025 is to sell El Baile de les Biches to an audiovisual entertainment platform and continue dreaming. I want to create more stories within this universe—it’s so powerful and full of potential. The possibilities are infinite.

I also want to travel, work abroad, and take on monumental projects. I thrive on big challenges; I dedicate myself 100%.

A little bird (not me, even though my name is Paloma!) told me everything ahead is bound for success.

I’m eager to collaborate with fashion brands on a grand scale, everywhere. I’m ready for whatever comes. Let 2025 arrive—I’m welcoming it with open arms, a clear mind, and boundless creativity.

My objective, as always, is to grow, grow, and keep growing.

Creative director and artist: @films35mm27lens

Interview by: @annaamaso

Photos: @paaazvallejo

Assist Art: @elizabethricachi