FINDING FULFILLMENT THROUGH ART:
The Journey of Lavina Marin
We had the pleasure of speaking with Lavina Marin, a self-taught artist whose life journey reflects her passion for creativity, resilience, and connection. From her childhood in Romania to her artistic flourishing in Marbella, Lavina’s path is a compelling tale of rediscovery and purpose. We explored what brought her to the Costa del Sol, how she developed her unique style, and the challenges she’s faced along the way.
A NEW HOME IN MARBELLA
Lavina Marin’s move to Marbella was both a practical and spiritual decision. After living in Lisbon for a year, the strong winds in the region became too much to endure. A city break in Marbella sparked a profound connection with the area, leading her to settle there.
“The narrow streets bathed in the warm light of orange sunsets, the Spaniards’ appetite for art and culture, and the Andalusian-style architecture resonated deeply with me,” she explained. The perfect climate, the sea, and the vibrancy of the Costa del Sol created the ideal environment for her artistic vision.
EARLY INFLUENCES AND REDISCOVERING ART
Lavina Marin grew up immersed in creativity, thanks to her father, Corneliu Marin, a double Olympic fencing champion with a passion for painting. “I believe I inherited from him this contrast between mental strength and physical endurance, and the sensitivity to beauty,” she shared. Although she didn’t formally study art, her love for creation found outlets in crafts, design, and home decoration throughout her life. It was during the Covid pandemic, however, that Lavina fully embraced her identity as an artist. With her business slowing down, she had the time and space to explore painting in depth. “I began painting and studying on my own, day by day, in greater depth,” she recalled, describing this as a pivotal moment in her journey.
DEVELOPING HER UNIQUE STYLE
Lavina Marin’s artistic style is defined by textured, three-dimensional works that capture the physical reality of the natural world. After experimenting with various techniques and approaches, she found joy in adding personal, tactile elements to her creations. “I find that they convey so precisely the physical reality of everything in nature and everything around us,” she said. For Lavina, art is more than just visual – it is a way to connect with herself and her surroundings. Her work reflects her deep appreciation for the beauty of life, both seen and felt.
OVERCOMING CHALLENGES
The road to becoming a full-time artist hasn’t been easy for Lavina Marin. Relocating her studio and tools multiple times – from Romania to Portugal and eventually to Spain – proved to be a logistical challenge. Her artistic process, involving heavy professional tools like drills and plastering trowels, has also led to physical injuries, including cuts, burns, and joint pain. Despite these setbacks, Lavina remains steadfast in her pursuit of art. “When you do something out of passion, these things become much easier to bear,” she shared. Her determination stems from her belief in the transformative power of art: “Art heals people. Both the artist and the viewer.”
GIVING BACK AND STAYING GROUNDED
Beyond her art, Lavina Marin is dedicated to helping others. She has been donating much of her earnings to dog shelters in Romania for many years, finding immense fulfillment in giving back. “We need to offer more than we receive,” she emphasized, expressing a deep sense of responsibility to help those in need. Her advice to aspiring artists reflects her own journey:
“Embrace change, discover new things, step out of your comfort zone, and follow your dreams — not to prove something to others but simply for yourself.”
For Lavina, this philosophy has brought not only artistic success but also spiritual fulfillment.
Lavina’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, creativity, and self-discovery. Through her textured, evocative works, she continues to inspire others to connect with their true selves and find healing through art. As she puts it, “Art is the best connection to your true self.” With her passion for giving back and embracing life’s challenges, Lavina Marin is a shining example of living with purpose and creativity.
