César Miguel, the entrepreneur and founder of the José Cestero Museum, has responded to recent concerns surrounding the health and well-being of Dominican painter José Cestero, 88, following the circulation of a video showing him wandering the streets of the Colonial City in a seemingly vulnerable state, as reported in Listin Diario.
In an interview with Listín Diario, Miguel addressed the rumors, clarifying the situation surrounding the iconic artist. He explained that Cestero, despite his advanced age, is not in a state of neglect, contrary to claims circulating on social media.
“The maestro Cestero has chosen to live his life according to his preferences, including his clothing. That old hat he wears, which might look worn, is the one he likes. I have personally bought him two new hats, and many others have gifted him new ones, but he prefers the old one. He has everything he needs, but he wears what he feels like in the moment,” Miguel stated.
Recent reports from concerned citizens described Cestero as appearing disheveled, without control over his bodily functions, and walking aimlessly. This raised questions about his health and the true nature of his condition.
Miguel further emphasized that Cestero is far from being abandoned. In addition to receiving a pension of RD$68,000, which Miguel and friends arranged for him three years ago, the artist receives continuous social assistance.
“We, his friends, not his family, keep track of his health, buy his medications, and make sure he takes them. We also provide him with breakfast and snacks daily at my office in the Colonial City.
Regarding the viral video showing Cestero in a disoriented state, Miguel clarified that it was a one-time incident.
“It was just an accident. We buy him diapers, but like any elderly person, sometimes he refuses to wear them. That day, he didn’t have them on and had an accident. It’s unfair to use that moment to claim he’s abandoned. It’s humiliating that we have to explain these private matters when we’ve always treated his situation with the discretion and respect it deserves,” Miguel said.
He added, “José Cestero is a free spirit. Even at 88, though he faces difficulties, he still has the ability to walk through the Colonial City, the place where he was born. He’s full of life, but at times, he may become disoriented, like any elderly person. Yes, he has moments where he gets dirty—that’s part of his age.”
César Miguel, a longtime art collector, stressed that his support for Cestero is not just personal but also cultural. In 2019, Miguel opened the José Cestero Museum to honor the artist, showcasing his personal collection of Cestero’s works from the 1960s to the present.
“I proposed the idea to the maestro because I wanted to contribute to his legacy and boost his self-esteem. With my own funds and personal collection, I opened this museum in his honor. It’s a nonprofit initiative with a cultural and educational purpose. Since 2020, the museum has been available to researchers and art enthusiasts who appreciate his work,” Miguel explained.
While the museum is not open to the public, Miguel clarified that it is accessible to researchers and fans of Dominican art, especially those who admire Cestero’s work. The space offers free access to carefully curated exhibits and produces audiovisual and editorial projects that showcase the artist’s dignity and legacy.
Miguel clarified that the museum does not sell Cestero’s works and does not manage his affairs or seek financial gain from his name or artwork, despite claims made on social media. “We do this out of respect and love for the artist,” he concluded.
Read more:
Listin Diario
DR1 News
17 February 2025