Marta and Joan are the creative force behind Barcelona brand Materia Rica.
Both are art enthusiasts, but each brought their own specialist skills to the partnership; Marta, a Polish artist, was living in London painting her amazing characters when she met Joan, a Spaniard passionate about design and technology.
Together they took Marta's artworks and transformed them into jewellery using laser technology. In 2014 Marta and Joan moved to Barcelona, and the Materia Rica brand was born.
Based in the creative neighbourhood of Gracia, the team has expanded to include Oscar, Clara and Sonia to keep up with demand for these vibrant, feel-good pieces. Materia Rica also partners with other artists, with collaborations that showcase the diversity and different visions of artists from other parts of the world. In this way, the Materia Rica range is constantly evolving and changing - so there's always something new to fangirl over 😍
I first saw the works of Materia Rica while walking through the old area of Born in Barcelona. The brightness and happiness shone through the shop window, and put a smile on my face. I was very happy to subsequently discover their studio is a quick walk from where I live. I was able to drop by, meet the team (including the studio dog!) watch the painstaking care that goes into hand-painting each piece, and understand the attention to environmental responsibility.
There is so much to love about this brand; the story, the creativity, the care, the great people. Above all though, I love that their tiny works of art always put a smile on my face, and I’ll bet they do the same for you. The world can do with a little more happiness 🥰 - Tarnia
Shop the Materia Rica range at Basil & Ivy
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