The Ministry of Culture announced on Tuesday, 10 December 2024 that Manuel Montilla has been awarded the 2024 National Visual Arts Award in recognition of his outstanding career and invaluable contributions to the development of Dominican art.
The Ministry of Culture announced the selection, following a unanimous decision by the award committee. The committee, chaired by Minister of Culture Milagros Germán, praised Montilla’s masterful technique and deep cultural connection, highlighting his work as a cornerstone of the nation’s artistic heritage.
Minister Germán personally congratulated Montilla via telephone, expressing gratitude for his extraordinary legacy and the profound impact he has had on Dominican culture. The minister emphasized that this recognition not only honors Montilla but also underscores the deep respect and admiration the Dominican art community has for his work.
Montilla, who currently resides in Spain, expressed his gratitude for the award, stating: “This is recognition for over 50 years of dedication to art, and it’s also recognition for all Dominican artists, as I have always fought for international recognition for all of our artists.”
The award ceremony will take place on 15 January 2025, at the Palacio de Bellas Artes in Santo Domingo. Montilla will receive a cash prize of one million pesos and a certificate of recognition.
Born in La Romana, Montilla is a leading figure in Dominican visual arts. After graduating as a drawing teacher from the National School of Fine Arts in 1974, he continued his studies in Madrid, Spain, where he perfected his skills in mural painting, engraving, and lithography.
Several of Montilla’s works are housed in prestigious collections, including the Reina Sofía Museum and the University of Alcalá de Henares Museum in Spain. His style, which blends technical mastery with a deep cultural understanding, has garnered international acclaim.
The award committee was composed of prominent figures in the Dominican arts community, including art critics, museum directors, and representatives from various arts organizations. The committee’s decision was based on a rigorous evaluation of Montilla’s artistic contributions and his impact on the Dominican art scene.
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Presidency
11 December 2024