Carlota Santos, professionally known as Carlotydes, is a Spanish artist, and writer with a background in architecture. Carlota is celebrated for her intricate illustrations that intertwine themes of astrology, tarot, and mythology. Her work is distinguished by delicate lines and romantic motifs, drawing inspiration from medieval art, baroque theater costumes, and alchemical manuscripts within a contemporary context.  

In 2020, during the global pandemic, Santos began sharing her art on Instagram under the handle @carlotydes. Her unique perspective on esoteric subjects quickly garnered a substantial following, establishing her as a prominent figure in the online esoteric community. This digital presence paved the way for several notable projects. For example, one of her significant works is the book “Constelaciones,” published in 2021 by Penguin Random House. Her book delves into astrology, offering readers insights into celestial patterns accompanied by Santos’s own illustrations. The book pays homage to ancient astrological traditions, enriched with mythological references and show her commitment to investigating diverse subjects and expressions.

Expanding her artistic repertoire, Santos collaborated with the renowned Fournier House of Cards to create the “Tarot de Carlotydes.” This tarot deck reimagines classic tarot imagery, blending contemporary and vintage aesthetics. The illustrations draw from diverse cultural and historical periods, including Celtic paganism, Imperial Russia, and Caribbean Santería, infusing each card with rich symbolism.

Beyond her publications, Santos has partnered with fashion brand Olympia Le-Tan to design a collection of accessories. This collaboration celebrates her poetic artistry, transforming her evocative imagery into timeless pieces that reflect her artistic depth and elegance. A theme that is also present in her artworks that will be listed through our gallery. 

Santos’s creative process is deeply rooted in continuous exploration and inspiration. She often immerses herself in reading and maintains sketchbooks to capture ideas and visuals that resonate with her. This meticulous approach allows her to blend classical references with modern interpretations, resulting in art that is both nostalgic and contemporary due to Carlota’s ability to delve into the emotional complexities that arise from this interplay.

Through her multifaceted endeavors, Carlota Santos is constantly offering fresh perspectives on esoteric subjects and inspiring a global audience with her unique creative vision which is why we are thrilled to be working in collaboration with her, selected works will be available for purchase from the 21st of March.