Ana
Paúl

Which place do you currently call home and where do you work on your projects?

I currently reside and work in Madrid, specifically in the neighborhood known as Barrio de las Letras. This area holds historical significance as it was once inhabited by renowned writers, this is why many street names honored them like Lope de Vega, Quevedo, and Cervantes.

Where is your studio located & how does it look?

My studio is in Madrid, in the center. Next to the Prado and Thyssen Museums among others.

Are there any projects that are personally important to you—whether recently completed or currently in progress?

I am leaving this week for NY  to show in Crossing Art Gallery and I am preparing an exhibition for December in Barcelona in Lab 36 Gallery (part of Senda Gallery).

I am glad to have worked for a very unique project for Hermes brand and as well for doing a beautiful book of poetry and art with La Cama Sol editions.

Do you have a favorite place in your area where you like to relax and linger?

When I seek relaxation, I often visit Club Matador, an establishment with a rich artistic and cultural ambiance. They regularly host interesting conferences, offer diverse musical performances ranging from jazz to classical and flamenco, and feature a curated selection of films.

Additionally, I enjoy early morning walks in the amazing Retiro Park, reveling in its tranquil beauty before the crowds arrive. Retiro Park boasts an incredible variety of trees. Sometimes during lunch breaks, I go to the Prado Museum, just a short two-minute walk away, to indulge in art.

Are there any urgent political issues or problems in your region?

In my region, Madrid, and indeed throughout Spain, polarization and the issue of regional independence movements pose significant challenges.

In your opinion, what has developed well in the last 5 years—and what has not?

Over the past five years, the hospitality sector in Madrid has flourished, witnessing the emergence of upscale hotels such as the Four Seasons, Mandarin Oriental, and Hotel Villamagna, etc. Additionally, the culinary scene has seen a surge with innovative concepts, while there has been a notable increase in interest in contemporary art.

On the downside, issues like over concentration in Madrid, water resources, and “la España vacía” (the depopulated Spain) remain unresolved.

Do you know a hidden gem when it comes to local manufacturers—whether it’s arts and crafts, sustainable products or food?

Of coures! I could make some examples in my area, such as Tierra & Tiempo or Andres Gallardo. While Ábbatte is an hour and a half from Madrid, in Segovia area, it’s still worth the visit.

Is there anything particularly innovative in your region? Also in comparison to other places you have already visited?

Madrid exudes a vibrant energy and has recently experienced a cultural Renaissance. Notably, culinary experiences have evolved, with avant-garde chefs offering sophisticated and inventive dishes alongside more traditional fare, blending tradition with innovation seamlessly.

Do you have a secret restaurant tip that you would like to share with us?

The genius and creativity of Samy Alí continues to be savored in his restaurant Doppelgänger, in the Antón Martín Market. The chef, who has already ascended to the Michelin firmament with La Candela Restó, did not completely escape the Red Guide from this simple ‘position’ in which, however, he continues to offer a top experience.

Sua is a fantastic spot known for its high-quality meat sourced from northern Spain. The service is excellent, and the ambiance is casual, with a skylight in the ceiling that floods the space with natural light.

The Triciclo group has several restaurants in the area, each one with its own identity. I like all of them very much.

Cafe Murillo offers simple yet delicious dishes, including Venezuelan specialties enjoyed by notable figures like Carolina Herrera. It boasts a casual atmosphere and is conveniently located next to the Prado Museum.

ESTIMAR represents the love for the sea and its raw material, they work with dedication and passion for their clients.

Motteau Bakery offers the best pastry in town, made with love by the owners. It’s a charming place with lots of soul to have a coffe or tea.

Is there a local shop whose products are only available in your region?

Founded in 1995, La Fábrica is an independent publisher specialized in photography and art, committed to quality in design and content. La Fábrica is one of the best international art and photography publishers, and releases the work of photographers and artists such as Henri Cartier-Bresson, Robert Capa, David Hockney, Chema Madoz, Robert Frank, Cristina García Rodero, Eduardo Arroyo, Alberto García -Alix… Their team pours all its know-how into publications of the highest quality, both in content and design, printing and binding, and in distributing them to bookstores and art centers around the world.

Real Fábrica Española is the store for a curated selection of Spanish products that represent the culture of our country. Here you can find everything from the oldest chocolate brand to the best “ham” or perfume.

What are your 3 favourite apps that you use every day and couldn’t live without?

— Instagram

— Podcasts

— iMusic

Do you have any favourite newspapers or online magazines? And how do you keep up to date with politics or social and cultural issues?

I usually consult The Objective and El Mundo to keep up with the news.

Imagine you could be mayor for a year—what would you change?

As mayor, my priorities would include to ensure that all children that go to school are happy and that each person is respected for their uniqueness, ensuring that all schools foster a safe and inclusive environment for all students. I would include certain pedestrianizing streets to enhance walkability, introducing a tramway system (like the old ones with some open space) to improve public transportation.

One last question: If you could choose another place to live—regardless of financial or time constrains—which one would you choose?

While I cherish living in Madrid for all it offers, if given the opportunity, I would relish spending several months a year in a Quaint Village in Mallorca Island.