Today I want to tell you how yes, it is possible to do the most beautiful job in the world while living far from the city.
Many people tell us that our choice is risky, difficult, questionable… But a few days ago, when all of Spain literally went dark, we realized how beautiful, consistent, and sensible our choice really is. While everything stopped, we kept working. And we did it by choice, not out of obligation. But most of all, we did it with the lights on. ✨
How? By choosing to be self-sufficient. Even though total self-sufficiency is still a long way off, we didn’t feel the effects of the now-famous «apagon» for even a minute.
Self-sufficiency for us is a life choice, but also a work choice. Day by day, we are trying to become autonomous in everything, and we’re doing it from the place we truly want to be.
The blackout was just a small example. Thanks to our solar panels, the systems we are building step by step, and a different approach to life, we’ve chosen to depend as little as possible on external networks. And it’s not just about electricity: it’s a mindset. A fundamental choice. We don’t have everything the city “offers”, but we have what we need — and in our case, it’s even more.
We have freedom. Freedom to follow our own rhythms, not go to an office, not stress over traffic, over people… Many times Raul and I look at each other in amazement at how much joy this decision brings us. Is it harder? Maybe.
Does it require more effort? Probably.
Does it reward me? Absolutely.
I’d love to explain to you how I work as an illustrator, and how we now run two businesses from up here, on the top of our beautiful mountain. I know many people don’t do this job, so I ask you to translate this information into what applies to your own work. I know there are jobs that can’t be done from the top of a mountain, but yes: you can work toward the life you want, and yes: you can break free from the mold.
A message for anyone dreaming of a different life
This post isn’t to say that everyone should move to the middle of nowhere. It’s to say that it’s possible. You can live simply, sustainably, more slowly, and still create, work, contribute. You can build a life that makes sense for you, even if it’s different from what’s “expected.”
I did it. And today, I can tell you it’s truly worth it. And no, I’m not «lucky.» I worked hard to build all of this — and I keep working every single day.
🎨 How I work as an illustrator living on a mountain:
What I do:
- Networking: I do a lot of work online. Lots of emailing, Instagram posts, and I take care of my digital image the same way I would for an important meeting.
- I NEVER wait for work to come to me. Living this way has pros and cons, and one of the cons is that clients won’t imagine what you do or that you even exist — unless you tell them.
- I try to stay informed, I constantly listen to podcasts, take courses, and talk to other illustrators.
- Being part of one or more associations: as I said before, being a solo illustrator is counterproductive. It’s slower, you learn less, and you miss out on feedback. Being part of something, even just virtually, is essential.No matter how much you love being alone, and even though illustration seems like a solitary job, it really shouldn’t be. We’re creatives — we need feedback, inspiration, and different perspectives.
- Trips to the city: although the place I live inspires and energizes me creatively, going to the city is an incredible source of inspiration. Sitting in a café or on a bench drawing dogs, people, buildings… just watching generates ideas and boosts creativity.
What you need:
1. A good Internet connection
We have fast, independent Internet.
This is the first rule for anyone wanting to live like a hermit, like us.
In fact, when the apagon happened, everything kept working just fine.
2. Be tech-savvy
- A graphic tablet or iPad + Apple Pencil
- Scanner for analog work
- Well-configured laptop or desktop computer
- Printer (if you sell prints or paper-based work — I haven’t reached this point yet, but it’s planned)
- A system to manage orders and shipping, even a simple one
3. Independent energy (even partial)
We have a solar battery that allowed us to keep living normally during the apagon.
4. Organization and consistency
Working independently requires discipline. Even if you live in the woods, having a routine is essential for managing time, deliveries, and clients.
5. Trusted collaborators and suppliers
I have a trusted print shop.
Though I’ll be honest: the goal is to become self-sufficient here too, and buy the printer of my dreams — all in due time.
I also have a trusted shipping company. I know they’ll never let me down. I can contact everyone from here and only go to the city to pick up prints.
6. Networks and contacts, even remotely
Use social media, newsletters, and your online portfolio to showcase your work.
You may not be physically in creative hubs, but you can still be there virtually — and stand out.
7. A clear vision of what you want to build
Choose this lifestyle not just to “escape,” but to create something that reflects who you are.
The mountain doesn’t take away opportunities — it gives you roots, and forces you to be honest with yourself.
