People of Ibiza

People of Ibiza: Elena Noguera Wilson

Elena Noguera Wilson, founder of the ceramics brand Bartblanc, is the daughter of an Ibicencan father and an American mother. This heritage reflects the island’s unique blend of Mediterranean traditions and global influences. Growing up in Ibiza, she was deeply shaped by this rich cultural tapestry, which continues to inspire her work.

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Her ceramics encapsulate fragments of cherished memories, childhood patterns, and meaningful inspirations, guided by values of uniqueness, playfulness, and quality. Through Bartblanc, Elena aims to enrich lives with timeless pieces that bring personality to spaces and celebrate the beauty of everyday moments.

Balancing her artistic career with life as a mother of four, she draws inspiration from her children and the tranquil rhythm of Ibiza, envisioning Bartblanc as a symbol of creativity, connection, and intentional living.

Growing up on the island meant being part of a unique community where Mediterranean islanders and foreigners coexisted, sharing the best of their worlds. The contrast between an isolated community with strong traditions and the continuous influence of other cultures created a cosmopolitan environment where anyone could feel at home. 

This dynamic profoundly shaped me, influencing both my personal outlook and professional identity. Ibiza’s essence is deeply rooted in my heart and is reflected in my work. My childhood on the island was carefree, vibrant, and salty.

I was always drawn to the performing arts, but it wasn’t until I discovered ceramics in my teenage years that I realised I could truly express myself without limitations. That moment marked the beginning of my deeper connection with art and creativity.

In the early phase of my career, working at Pacha Group was an extraordinary experience. As a love brand, it provided a rare opportunity to connect with an audience that was both dynamic and positive. Every aspect of the work was exhilarating and rewarding, allowing me to contribute to something truly vibrant and impactful.

The key lessons I took from my time at Pacha are countless. I started there at 27 and left at 40, experiencing an incredible journey filled with events, collaborations, people, and places. It felt like a school of life, shaping not only my professional skills but also my personal growth in ways that continue to influence me today.

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There was a moment when I began to feel the need for a new direction. At first, I thought it was simply a desire to work with a different brand, perhaps outside the entertainment industry. However, after deeper reflection, I realised that what I truly needed was a bigger shift, one that went beyond just switching brands.

In 2018, a series of life-changing events led me to rethink my priorities and pursue a new path. Leaving the corporate world allowed me to build a ceramics studio at home, combining my dream job with the ability to stay close to my family. The transition felt perfectly timed, aligning seamlessly with where I was in life and what I was ready to embrace.

The emotional and practical shift between these two stages of my life was significant. I was deeply attached to the professional profile I had built through years of hard work, and that was the only aspect that made me hesitate. However, I quickly fell in love with this new chapter. What initially felt like a life revolution turned out to be a profound evolution, transforming both my personal and professional outlook.

Choosing ceramics as my new passion was a natural decision. It has always been one of my greatest devotions, so when the time came to decide what my personal project should focus on, the answer was clear. This magnetic island provides me with the peace and calm I need to create in my studio.

My pieces are like recollections, fragments of cherished memories, both old and new. They reflect patterns from my childhood or are inspired by places and people who hold a special place in my heart.

My children absolutely influence my creative process and designs. My favourite pieces are often the ones that catch their attention or spark their comments. After all, aren’t children the most honest critics? I love asking for their opinions and seeing their reactions. They always bring a unique perspective.

Balancing motherhood with four children and my artistic work has been a learning process. It’s all about planning and being present. When I’m with my kids, I focus entirely on them and try not to think about the studio. When I’m working, I dedicate myself fully to the creative process. It’s a constant effort to improve my time management and maintain balance.

Living an authentic life aligned with my values means first recognising what those values are and then prioritising them in everything I do. It’s not always easy, but it’s essential. My perspective on success has shifted significantly since my days at Pacha. Back then, I often sought validation from others, but now I see success as something deeply personal, a feeling that comes from within.

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If I could send a message to my past self before making this big change, I’d simply give her a wink, letting her know she’s on the right path. Right now, my focus is on staying healthy and motivated: that’s what matters most at this stage.

My vision for Bartblanc is to enrich meaningful moments in people’s lives, whether enjoyed alone or shared, because, after all, coffee always tastes better in a handmade mug.

The purpose behind my creations is to provide something unique and thoughtfully designed that people truly love, while also inspiring a more mindful and intentional way of living.

I see my work as a contribution to preserving Ibiza’s cultural essence, becoming part of the island’s rich artistic heritage. With its stunning landscapes and architectural beauty, Ibiza has long been a cultural hub for artists from across the globe. My eclectic and timeless pieces naturally align with and enhance the island’s open-minded legacy.

To build a closer connection with my community, I focus on staying active on my social platforms and hosting open studio days, offering people a chance to engage with my work in person.

The people who resonate most with my work are those looking for their first unique artistic piece, interior designers seeking the perfect element to complete a space, table-setting enthusiasts, flower-arrangement lovers, or anyone who values the philosophy of slowing down and appreciating beauty in the little things.

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At the heart of my work as a ceramicist are the values of uniqueness, playfulness, and quality. I strive to create distinctive pieces that add character and soul to the spaces they occupy.

Looking ahead, I’m open to exploring opportunities anywhere in the world; every corner of the planet holds possibilities. In the coming years, I envision Bartblanc growing into a trusted brand, inspiring clients to return for new pieces to complete their collections.

One of my biggest dreams is for Bartblanc’s patterns and designs to become so distinctive that they are instantly recognisable. Achieving that level of identity would be truly incredible.

The legacy I aspire to leave with Bartblanc is for its pieces to become timeless keepers of meaningful moments, symbols of true luxury found in the connections and stories we create when gathering with those we love. 

If my creations could speak, they might say:

"Our creator is a dreamer and storyteller who discovers beauty in quiet moments and the natural rhythm of life. She hopes we inspire people to embrace the magic woven into their everyday experiences."

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