Antonio Martorell receives multiple rewards

An avalanche of distinctions were received by the Puerto Rican artist Antonio Martorell during his brief stay in the Cuban capital as one of the special guests of the Tenth Biennial of Havana, where the artist organized and lead the workshop entitled The Total Immortal (March 23--April 4). At the closing of the workshop, the Unión de Escritores y Artistas de Cuba (Union of Writers and Artists of Cuba) bestowed the member of honor to this charismatic sketcher, painter, engraver, scenic designer, costume designer, and cultural journalist. Few days prior, the Instituto Superior de Arte (Higher Institute of Art) distinguished Martorell with the Honoris Doctorate Cause. In addition, the Casa de las Américas (House of the Americas) bestowed him the medal that carries the name of its founder (Haydée Santamaría) for his continued relationship with that institution where the artist has given workshops, as part of the regional contest La Joven Estampa (The Young Stamp). In this award ceremony, Martorell expressed: ¿I accept with honor this medal not only in my name but in that of my companions, the Puerto Rican artists and those which still are not recognized themselves as artists. Because being Puerto Rican is in itself an art, more than a product; more than a process, a desire; more than a desire, a necessity¿.