Colonya Caixa Pollença Ethic Savings

Written by Gregorio_C on May 6, 2023. Posted in Blog, Meet the Sea. Leave a Comment

Colonya Caixa Pollença “Ethic Savings” program provides funding for small local companies committed to social inclusion and sustainability.

On Friday, 5th of May 2023 the annual “Ethic savings” awards hosted by Caixa Pollença took place at Apfem Ibiza. We are honoured to be one of the companies who received funding based on our commitment to social content and sustainability.

What is Colonya Caixa Pollença Ethic Savings?

Colonya Caixa Pollença is a savings bank based in the island of Majorca with presence in all the Balearic islands. Colonya’s relatively small size allows for a truly personalised relationship and bespoke services for their local client base.

We started our relationship with Colonya back in 2020, when Meet the Sea sought funding our Family boat trip. A difficult moment for us all, as rumours of the pandemic were about to translate into lockdown. With the new season only a few months away, we were grateful and surprised that our loan went ahead. And in July, Meet the Sea organised its maiden trip thanks in part to the support of Colonya.

“Estalvi ètic” or Ethical savings is a scheme pioneered by Colonya to fund small companies based in Majorca, Minorca and Ibiza. These companies promote equality, opportunity for the disadvantaged, sustainability or commitment to the environment. Any of these areas as main corporate objective warrants the consideration of Colonya’s Ethic committee for financial support.

This is how it works: Clients donate 20 € per year to the cause. Additionally, the bank lends 5% of their insurance premiums, 0,35% of their loan revenue and 5 € per very card issued. And that brings the 2023 total to a sum of 413,000 € destined entirely to applying companies.

Ethic savings distribution criteria

An external and therefore independent committee sets the rules and criteria for a favourable decision. Crucially, companies must show actions that favor inclusion and sustainability in their actions. It is Colonya’s way to favour ethical banking practices applied to small local companies. And this year, 142 companies from Mallorca, 32 from Minorca and 24 from Ibiza obtained a welcome surplus.

We want to congratulate Colonya for a palpable and direct action to promote ethical banking. Finally, we join other companies in Ibiza in thanking them for supporting our cause. Onwards with education and entertainment at sea for families around the world.

TUI sustainability diploma bestowed upon Meet the Sea

The TUI sustainability diploma

Written by Gregorio_C on April 23, 2023. Posted in Blog. Leave a Comment

The TUI sustainability diploma is a valuable and accurate method to ascertain a company’s commitment to sustainability in daily operations.

The role of sustainability tested

The GSTC (Global Sustainable Tourism Council) establishes and manages global standards for sustainable travel and tourism. The sustainability diploma issued by GSTC has been adopted by TUI as a means to ensure that their guests visit destinations where suppliers act responsibly. And we, Meet the Sea, as hosts to more than 2,000 TUI guests in 2022 in Our Family Boat trip, faced the test. Are our daily operations up to the standards set by TUI and GSTC?

General Information about Meet the Sea

The self-assessment begins with questions about our commitment to promoting local employment. After, ways in which we support the local economy and the promotion of gender equality and women empowerment. Finally, an analysis of best practices for the reduction of water and energy consumption and reduction of emissions. The correct disposal of solid waste and the avoidance of the introduction of invasive species closes the preliminary survey.

We found this initial section to be solid and in keeping with the philosophy that any modern company should seek to uphold. Crucially, Meet the sea is fortunate that the core of our philosophy and sustainability credo is led by three women out of four key management positions.

Nature of our Boat trip activity and sites

Minimisation of impact on the natural sites we visit, group size and frequency of visits is next on the survey. This was a key aspect, as we visit daily the stunning Natural Reserve of the island of Conejera, home to beautiful waters and species. We take our clients in snorkelling tours designed by a marine biologist always in small groups. As a result, the client enjoys a bespoke experience and the environment suffers minimal impact.

The bay of San Antonio offers a wealth of cultural heritage that we highlight through local landmarks such as Torre d’en Rovira. Built in the XVIII century to alert locals to the presence of incoming pirates, Rovira captures the imagination of children onboard. And their questions and curiosity never ceases to surprise us!

Means of Transportation and Food & Beverage

A classic wooden boat, in service since 1970, carries families during our trip. It has the benefit of maximising space, with ninety-four passengers in 18 meters of length. Its most salient feature is the fact that it provides comfort and minimises fuel consumption. Still, we would love to see an improvement of alternative energies in ships as we see on road vehicles. This would be paramount in helping the sea become the protected space from fossil fuel for which we strive.

Beverages are scored on the basis of source, waste management and water consumption. Similarly, food sourcing, the exclusion of endangered species in our menus and reusable containers are scored.

Guiding and Accessibility

In order to guarantee the quality of the experience delivered to clients, guides need to prove site-specific knowledge, be trained and knowledgeable. In that respect, certifications and qualifications play a key role. Additionally, they must ensure appropriate intercultural exchange with locals and be aware of special features in natural sites.

Accessibility continues to pose a challenge for us. While we have been able to make our snorkelling activity available to non-swimmers and to infants and elder people, we are not fully satisfied. Wheelchair access is as of yet unresolved and it is always painful and difficult to exclude anybody. While access to the boat will soon be possible, the experience at sea poses a much bigger problem.

Animals

TUI is committed to the welfare of all kinds of animals that are somehow involved in the activities. To that effect, the Family boat trip had to take a hard look at our interaction with species. Most of the species passengers learn about during our presentation are seen during the snorkelling tour. The tour leader points at species as they swim by and selects skeletons of sea urchins and shells to illustrate the tour. Finally, we have decided to show small pieces of Posidonia or Neptune grass given its crucial importance to the ecosystem. In all, we feel that it is possible to provide a unique experience for children in bringing them closer to live species without threatening their integrity.

Conclusion about the TUI diploma

The TUI sustainability diploma is awarded only after a thorough analysis of a company’s practices. It is hard to obtain a perfect score and it certainly provides a code of ethics to which aspire. For Meet the Sea, it has pointed out a number of areas where improvement can be made. And towards that goal we will endeavour as the season begins.

Meet the Sea boat passengers welcoming a seagull

Meet the Sea 2023 begins

Written by Gregorio_C on April 11, 2023. Posted in Blog, Meet the Sea. Leave a Comment

Meet the Sea 2023 begins a new exciting season looking to expand its message of education and entertainment at sea.

We will start in May 2023 the fourth season of our Family Boat trip with renewed energy and determination. As always, aiming to produce moments of exhilaration for the whole family as they jointly discover underwater beauty and forge a great memory. We long to see the faces of children looking at a sea urchin for the first time and learning about the importance of Posidonia (Neptune grass). Or identifying the elusive rainbow wrasse while mastering the use of mask and snorkel.

The values of Meet the Sea 2023

Education about marine life is certainly the main goal at Meet the Sea. But equally important is the personal growth experienced by children swimming in open seas. The security and confidence they acquire as they look back from the boat at the distance they just covered. The initial discomfort and perhaps even fear they feel when looking at unusual sea depths, later overcome and turned into pride and self-belief. We like to think that during the four hours of our boat trip they grow up a little. Perhaps even discover a new hobby or passion that will be important in their lives going forward.

Parents are very important to us. They take the initial step of exposing their children to a journey of fun, growth and education. Crucially, they also make a conscious decision to forge the personality of new individuals aware of the importance of the environment in our times. During the boat trip, it is not uncommon to hear Dad say “I came for my children, but this was great for me to!” and this makes us particularly happy, as we look for a family moment. Mom is usually the decision maker, our studies show, and her intuition proves right.

We hope to have you onboard as Meet the sea 2023 begins. We sincerely belief you will find your expectations met and hopefully exceeded. Our team will contribute to the success of your day with passion and enthusiasm. See you at sea!

*For a wider choice of large group boat adventures, look at our parent company’s Sea incentive 2023 adventures.

Winter snorkelling in Ibiza

Written by Gregorio_C on February 26, 2023. Posted in Blog, Marine species. Leave a Comment

Winter snorkelling in Ibiza has the added beauty of a deserted coast and deafening silence.

A beautiful Saturday morning in February and the majestic Torre d’en Rovira as our only witness. As we make our way down the rocky shore, the excitement of putting on our wetsuits overcomes us. It’s a beautiful winter morning with blue skies and a soft northern breeze clears all the clouds. The sea reveals all its hues of green, turquoise, blue and waits for us, almost calling our names.

Jes, our camera wizzard, is putting on her wetsuit as she announces water temperature: a brisk 14 degrees celsius. It will probably get to a low of 13 in coming days, and then spring should gradually bring us warmer waters. But we feel blessed that this is as low as it gets in our white island.

We glide into the sea and we avoid a few jellyfish unseasonably present at this time of winter. Leftovers from the previous summer who are piling up near the shore, most of them soon dead. And then, all of a sudden, a beautiful starfish (Mediterranean red star, or Echinaster sepositus) is right in front of us. Bright red, sprawling on a bed of colourful of algae, the star seems to want to come out of the water. And soon after, a purple sea urchin under a rock, followed by a school of sea breams.

Torre d’en Rovira witnesses our winter snorkelling

Torre d’en Rovira is situated between Cala Bassa and Cala Comte and presides the bay of San Antoni. From its strategic location it alerted the population of Sant Antoni of incoming pirate vessels since the XVIII century. And these were frequent! From the XIV century, pirates from northern Africa raided the Ibiza coast and the tower was instrumental in letting locals know it was time to seek refuge. Men on the tower made smoke signals or fire at night upon sighting the incoming vessel.

The lack of an army in Ibiza made the defence of its citizens and goods a difficult proposition. It was not until the islanders created their own body of privateers or corsairs that Ibiza proudly defended itself. The legendary Ibiza corsairs marks the transition from towers of alert to towers of defence.

Winter snorkelling might be for you

I picked up winter snorkelling from a young age in Ibiza. It just seemed too long until summer came around again to enjoy the beauty of our underwater paradise. Sure, at first the water seemed a little cold to stay for more than a quick and invigorating dip. But a wetsuit of about 5 mm allows you to enjoy your snorkelling for long periods without any discomfort.

I always feel relaxed as I see colours, different textures and wildlife surrounding me. Snorkelling is also a good source of exercise as you swim and particularly as you try to fight the buoyancy of your suit as you dive. Calm, energised and filled with beautiful images is how you feel after an underwater session. Try it!

Posidonia under threat

Written by Gregorio_C on January 29, 2023. Posted in Blog. Leave a Comment

January 29th, 2023. Posidonia under threat of extinction in the Mediterranean if water temperatures maintain current levels seen during summer 2022.

An article published today in Diario de Mallorca and Diario de Ibiza underlined the impact of high sea temperatures registered last summer. “Water temperatures above 28 or 29 degrees will kill Posidonia Oceanica” stated the Citizen Assembly for Mallorca Climate. The association, led by a group of experts in marine and terrestrial ecosystems, keeps track of daily water temperatures in the Balearics.

Experts observed during the meeting held in Sineu, Mallorca, that a high of 31,4 degrees Celsius or 88,5 Fahrenheit had been recorded this summer near the island of Dragonera. This temperature is the highest recorded in the area. By 2050, if temperatures keep rising at this pace, Posidonia will disappear completely.

It is important to note that temperatures are rising since the 80’s at a pace of half a degree per decade. However, local expert Miquel Tur, owner of the Cap Blanc Aquarium, thinks this is understated. During our interview with him, he stated that water temperatures at the aquarium rise consistently above that pace. “We are closer to one degree per decade since we started measuring in the 80’s” said Miquel.

We, at Meet the Sea, always start our Family boat trip presentation with Posidonia. It is crucial to underline the importance of this 80,000 year old sea plant in protecting our seas. It produces more oxygen than the equivalent area of the Amazon forest, thereby keeping our waters crystal clear. In its core we often find during our snorkelling tours creatures of all sizes and variety. The lush and thick meadows are key in softening the impact of winter waves and minimising coastal erosion.

Our pledge to Posidonia Oceanica in Ibiza

We are fortunate enough to be out at sea frequently during the summer months with our clients. 12 boat trips in 2020, 29 in 2021 and 82 in 2022 and we hope that 2023 will continue to strengthen that trend. Meet the sea will take water temperatures every time we are at sea. We will measure and record water temperature in the bay of Sant Antoni, near Torre d’en Rovira.

As usual, we will continue to pick up from the ocean floor filled with Posidonia all objects we often find. Children are the protagonists of our boat trips and their commitment to ocean clean-ups is unwavering. We welcomed over 1,000 children last summer onboard and their faith is our pride. We can make a difference and we shall. Our Posidonia under threat need not be acceptable to us.

Onboard Meet the Sea moments of family joy

Memories of 2022

Written by Gregorio_C on December 29, 2022. Posted in Blog. Leave a Comment

Memories of 2022 and the long summer that was onboard Meet the Sea. In the video below are some of the highlights of our Family Boat trip around the sea of Ibiza and some of the stories that made us smile.

Remembering summer with Meet the Sea

We are all aware of the digital advances of our era and the profound changes they imply in children’s education. I personally marvel at the means available to teachers and students today when I think of my classroom. I also feel that children across Europe and the UK are today more outspoken, independent and willing to discover. It is crucial that these innate qualities and the excellent support obtained in school find completion with a strong relationship with our planet. That is perhaps the main reason Meet the Sea exists. Our desire to provide an experience and memories that will awaken or stoke a child’s curiosity for the sea.

I am in awe of the courage shown by so many children during our Family Boat trip. Dropping anchor in 30 feet of water poses a challenge for many, no matter how beautiful and secluded the spot. So many questions thrown at our guides as we get ready to snorkel: are there sharks? How deep is it? Why is the water dark over there? And despite their initial hesitation, we soon saw them with their mask following our guide. How proud I felt of these courageous children! How wise of their parents to support, motivate and push them to discover and challenge their fears!

Once in the water it is important that children get to see marine life from up close: It is important to understand the role of Posidonia Oceanica or Neptune grass in our environment. Or to witness the slow movements of the sea urchin as they seek protection. All of these small wonders help the young ones develop empathy for the creatures below and develop their love and concern for the environment.

Summer memories of 2022 onboard were about open blue skies and pristine waters. They were also about secluded bays that make us feel unique and that convey a sense of exclusivity to our holiday. And certainly also about discovering a number o species probably unknown to most. But perhaps more importantly they were about the personal growth experienced by children who challenged their fears. The satisfaction they felt for braving the depths of the sea and the unknown. The curiosity that thrilled them when discovering a new world. And perhaps the beginning of new horizons deployed in their limitless imagination.

Our thanks to Visit Sant Antoni for some of the pictures depicted in the video above and especially to our onboard photographer Jesica for her daily work.

10 reasons to book us in 2023

Written by Gregorio_C on December 23, 2022. Posted in Blog. Leave a Comment

10 reasons to book us in 2023 and enjoy any of our Meet the Sea experiences. Our acclaimed Family Boat trip, the new Snorkelling Adventure for adults or a Group Private Charter.

Clients are always right… and they have spoken! We are truly thankful for the time a lot of our dear clients put in to write detailed and lengthy reviews. Whether in our website, or in online travel agents like Get Your Guide and Trip Advisor, everyone has been truly supportive and encouraging. And we do not forget those that write to us directly to our Facebook page or Google business site!
A must for families with a taste for adventure. The Family Boat trip is and ideal 4-hour adventure for the whole family. Departing from san Antonio and heading to the natural reserve of Conejera island, or the legendary Torre d’en Rovira, the seas are beautiful, pristine and waiting for you. The snorkelling guided tour designed by our marine biologist is an experience to remember.
Challenge yourself to brave the seas. Do not just stay by the hotel pool sipping cocktails and enjoying the great restaurants of the island, although that’s a great plan as well! Have a look at the joyful faces of children and adults alike in our Instagram. They tell you that they are happy, proud after snorkelling, swimming in deep waters, feeling free and elated!
Experience personal growth while having fun. Swimming in open seas is not for everyone… or is it? Our team is there to make you feel safe, supported and encouraged to take the plunge into the sea. You feel so good about yourself when you have set a new personal achievement and enlarge your personality. Not to mention the combination of thrill, beauty and inner peace you will experience.
Strengthen your ties with nature and the sea. We all need it. Just listening to your breath through the snorkel while you look at the bottom of the sea is truly special. Feeling the elation of water around you and the minerals that restore your physical and mental health. It’s well worth it.
Learn about and interact with so many marine species! Understand why the Posidonia plant keeps our waters pristine or learn the habits of the beautiful sea urchin and see it from up close. Do you know what a rainbow wrasse is or why they call it the dentist fish? we often see starfish and our friend the octopus… you are sure to see in complete freedom and interact with at least ten species.
Enjoy a truly curated experience at a reasonable price. We take pride in our job of sharing with you our love for the sea and we are told it shows! We leave nothing to chance and we strive to organise your experience to maximise your fun.
Our NEW snorkelling adventure. Only for adults, this one we designed as a semi-private adventure departing from a place near you by car/van. If you do not like boats or get seasick, or if you fancy a morning with a bit of adventure and exercise in a secluded spot, this one’s for you! Our marine biologist has selected a handful of the best places in Ibiza to snorkel like a pro. And we do so secretly and in total peace while surrounded by beauty above and below sea level.
If you are in a large group with friends or family, why not enjoy privately? The group private charter allows you to enjoy the Meet the Sea experience with all its content and within the privacy of your group. Write to us wether you are celebrating a special occasion or just wanting to have a great day at sea. You are sure to find goo value with us.
Do your bit for the environment! We are committed to nature and the sea. To underwater beauty and the preservation of the marine species that inhabit the sea. We want to bring to ibiza and to you a new way to understand tourism, ecologically and respectfully. We are strongly committed to your personal development and holiday experience.

10 reasons to book with us in 2023 are now in your hands… and we truly hope we can see you onboard or snorkelling with us this summer! Until then.

10 Benefits of the Sea

Written by Gregorio_C on December 9, 2022. Posted in Blog. Leave a Comment

December 9, 2022.

10 benefits of the sea that you experience when joining us in one of our Meet the Sea experiences around the Ibiza coast.

I have often wondered why being at sea makes me happy. Perhaps the fact that I was born in Ibiza accentuated the importance of answering the question. Over the years I have observed people at sea and read abundantly on the subject.

Here are the 10 benefits to being at sea with us:

The health impact of sea air. As we approach the sea, before we even set foot in it, we are overcome with a sense of calm and wellbeing. Why is that? A study conducted by Jo Garrett, of the University of Exeter, concentrated on the benefits of mental health due to coastal proximity. It appears that being near the sea reduces depression, anxiety and mortality rates.
The positive effect on your brain and lungs. The immediate sense of improved breathing is the result of salt in the air. As Oceanic states, the ocean’s waves produce negative ions that increase oxygen flow to your brain. As a result, you feel more energised and relaxed. Minerals in sea water also help clear the airways and breathing the sea breeze naturally cleanses our lungs.
Natural relaxation at sea. As we leave the harbour behind onboard our boat, we begin to feel surrounded by silence and peace. Only the sound of the waves and light ocean spray surround us as the morning sun awakes our senses. We feel calm, invaded by a sense of peace and wellbeing as we look forward to our sea adventure.
Feeling social and energised. Friends, families, different age groups and nationalities all converge in a medium size group on the Family Boat trip. The joy we feel when setting out to sea enhances our social instinct, the desire to interact and appetite for adventure.
The challenge posed by the sea: Our sometimes too sedentary lives need a good impulse during the sea holiday! As soon as we drop anchor, we start our mask and snorkel fitting session. In a matter of minutes, you start our guided snorkelling tour exploring the bottom of the sea and discovering the underwater world.
Calm at Sea: No sounds, only breathing. As you begin to follow our guide who leads you into the unknown, we only hear the sound of our breath. The snorkel amplifies the sound of our rhythmic breathing and we feel a natural meditative state invading us.
Sense of achievement after the adventure: Swimming in open seas, interacting with sea creatures and seeing 20 feet of water below you is unusual! Your mind acknowledges the challenge and your soul feels enriched and strengthened as you arrive back to the boat.
Personal growth of children and adults: We are always impressed by the courage shown by small children in deep waters. By their smile after they conquer their fears and the satisfaction that is drawn in their faces. And by the joy felt by parents as they watch their children. Only because of this single aspect the adventure is worth your time!
Your skin, your muscles, your mind: Feel the impact on your skin as the minerals act during our snorkelling tour. Feel the soft impact of exercise at sea: your muscles tighten in a natural and gradual way, your joints do not suffer and your mind is ta peace.
A return to land filled with joy: We arrive back to the dock feeling different. A sense of adventure, wellbeing, achievement, serenity and health surrounds our being. We are now feeling better about ourselves, more positive and eager to go out at sea again. Come join us in 2023 to discover it for yourself!

DIPEF Ibiza & Formentera DJ’s Association is born

Written by Gregorio_C on December 1, 2022. Posted in Blog, Events. Leave a Comment

December 1, 2022

DIPEF is the Ibiza and Formentera DJ’s association whose inauguration took place today at the Standard hotel in Ibiza town. Local DJ’s join forces to create a legal structure to strengthen their community and solidify the tradition of Ibiza as a hub of musical creativity.

The tradition of Ibiza as a melting pot of creative trends dates from the 1930’s. Consolidation of its musical heritage took place in the 60’s and with it a well-documented progression until achieving status as epicentre of electronic music. But perhaps what is not so well known is the role of local resident DJ’s and their contribution to Ibiza’s success in music.

DIPEF is born today with the objective of assisting local DJ’s in their professional and creative careers. Striving for for heightened visibility and improving working conditions is at the top of their list. We listened today to president Christian Len who stressed the importance of focusing on making the local DJ more competitive. The author of “Balearic: history of Ibiza’s club culture” is also convinced of the long term benefits to the cultural development of Ibiza.

Igor Marijuan, co-founder of mythical Ibiza Sonica and spokesman of DIPEF, encouraged the audience to become active members. “It is time to regroup, unite forces and affect our own destiny”, he said, rather than play the role of victims of a system that has traditionally favoured imported music. Igor is a self-made leading figure in the Ibiza music scene who knows well the obstacles to overcome as a local DJ.

Guadalupe Revuelta curated the press conference and opened the floor to questions from the audience.

What DIPEF DJ’s defend

The association seeks to solidify the image of the local DJ by asserting Ibiza as a place of unique cultural creativity, not just clubbing. It is only right to claim the genuinely local origins of Balearic, chill out or sunset music.

In order to export local music productions and reduce its traditional and steady import, DIPEF aims to promote a local style or Ibiza brand. A dedicated team of professionals will lead the way and will also ensure the assistance to young professionals venturing into this very competitive field.

It was truly inspiring to hear the determination of established figures of the music scene committing to DIPEF. We get the unequivocal feeling that the association is led by true professionals with a clear goal in mind and the experience to achieve it.

Meet the Sea looks forward to supporting the development of DIPEF in what we consider a crucial step in securing the musical heritage of Ibiza.

Leaders of DIPEF

Christian Len, President, author of “Balearic: history of Ibiza’s club culture” and resident DJ at Blue Marlin, Hostal La Torre or Pikes Hotel. He has participated in renowned projects such as Ibiza Sonica, Openlab or Sonar radio. he is currently the director of Flood.audio.

Oliver Azor, Vicepresident, DJ and producer since the 90’s. One of the most respected and established figures of spanish house music. He was resident of Amnesia and Space Ibiza and produced for Mindshake records, Defected, Azuli, Flashmob, Playmobil or Und The Rdar. He is also the founder of Pandora, which he currently directs at Lio (Pacha Ibiza).

Anna Tur, Ibiza born and established international DJ, was a director at Ibiza Global radio until 2020. She later founded Balearic, her current radio project. She is a also a force behind IMA Agency 360.

David Moreno, pioneering radio figure since 1992 with Ibiza Dance and public figure of Ibiza Global Radio fame. He currently manages his own station, Pure Ibiza radio. Throughout his radio career he was able to carve out a great career as DJ.

Igor Marijuan, DJ, promoter and music curator. Musical director of Akasha Ibiza, cofounder of Ibiza Sonica in 2004 and one of the most influential figures of Ibiza music. He is also brand ambassador of Monad and promoter of his own party Pareidolia.

Rafa Ariza, long standing resident DJ in Ibiza at Space (Café Olé), Matinee group or Danzatoria Barcelona.And, of course, Bora Bora where he was artistic director to the end.

Guadalupe Revuelta, Secretary, degrees in Journalism, Advertising and Public Relations from Seville University and ParisVIII- Saint Denis. Over twenty years experience in information and corporate communication, specialised in strategic PR and media consulting focusing in tourism and creative industries.

Pau Mind, Treasurer, diploma in economics from UOC, Dj and native producer of Ibiza. pau always combined his academic and professional pursuits with his love for music until in 2018, he made the right choice. he is today resident DJ at Pandora.

DIPEF Ibiza and Formentera DJ’s association is born. Long Live DIPEF!

Ibiza artist Júlia Ribas’ exhibit in Can Tixedó

Written by Gregorio_C on November 22, 2022. Posted in Blog, Events. Leave a Comment

November 22, 2022

Meet the Sea attends the exhibit of Ibiza artist Júlia Ribas in Can Tixedó and marvels at her depiction of typical local farmhouses.

I must admit I was not familiar with Júlia Ribas’ work until I arrived in Can Tixedó art café on Sunday. A picture in the local newspaper, Diario de Ibiza, announcing her most recent exhibit caught my eye. My passion for all expressions of traditional Ibiza did the rest.

Sunday afternoon was unseasonably warm once again. A beautiful day to drive around the fields of the island and follow the backroads of Sant Antoni until you arrive to Can Tixedó, an old shop turned bar by the side of the road and now with a solid tradition of hosting local artists. Right next to the café is the market of Forada that takes place on saturdays and that should not be missed either if you come to Ibiza.

Julia’s work

As soon as I entered the exhibit I was shocked. Facing me was a painting of a XVI century ibiza farmhouse that could not have been more realistic. I have seen over the years many interpretations of ibicenco fincas, ranging from the naïf to the abstract, but this painting made me feel like I never had before.

The painting makes you understand at once that you are before a farmhouse that was built out of necessity. That those that built it did so gradually, with hard work, as the family grew and additional areas were needed. You might almost be able to tell their story, their daily lives and appearance. Julia’s paintings evoke the history of the houses and the stories of those who lived in them.

I was fortunate enough that Júlia was there on Sunday. She was having lunch with family or friends, but still parted to speak to me and greet me though we had never met. She explained that part of the “realism” I felt was down to the lime she used to paint the houses. The same lime that for centuries has protected from insects and disease the farms. She also explained that the use of “betún de judea” or Bitumen of Judea was responsible for the range of brown across the painting. This was used often in homes to protect wooden objects and its use helped me recognise a tone that was familiar.

Nobody should miss Ibiza artist Júlia Ribas exhibit in Can Tixedó. I hope to find more Ibiza jewels this winter and share them with you.