The Casa de Cultura in Daimiel has opened the exhibition 'Los Bienvenida: a legendary dynasty', which features bullfighting posters from various eras and personal items related to this famous family. Organised by the Peña Taurina Daimieleña, the initiative benefits from the collaboration of collector and enthusiast Ángel Sonseca, who has contributed part of his collection, alongside the Bienvenida family.
This exhibition marks the 40th anniversary of the Peña Taurina Daimieleña, celebrating a family that dedicated their lives to the tradition of bullfighting. The exhibition hall will display items until 28 November, including posters, bullfighting equipment, and two 'trajes de luces' (traditional bullfighting costumes) that highlight different moments in the family's history.
The Bienvenida family, known for their contributions to bullfighting, includes six brothers who followed in the footsteps of their father, the renowned matador known as 'Papa Negro'. Among them is Antonio Bienvenida, a notable figure in the sport.
The inauguration was attended by the mayor of Daimiel, Leopoldo Sierra, who praised the dedication and hard work of the Peña Taurina in keeping this passion alive in the community. He acknowledged the challenges facing bullfighting today, emphasising the need to engage younger generations. “Initiatives like this help preserve the history and traditions of the bullfighting world, which extend far beyond what occurs in the ring,” he stated.
Paco Córdoba, secretary of the Peña, expressed gratitude for Ángel Sonseca's generosity and the support of Paloma Bienvenida, daughter of Antonio Bienvenida, who has lent several historically and sentimentally valuable items. These include two of Antonio Bienvenida's costumes, one of which was worn in the film 'Tarde de toros', as well as a silk cape belonging to Manolo Bienvenida and the montera (hat) of 'Papa Negro'.
Córdoba explained that the exhibition offers a chronological journey through the dynasty's history, highlighting the documentary value of the bullfighting posters, some of which are quite large. Each poster not only announces an event but also tells a story and provides insight into the era in which it was created.
Ángel Sonseca reiterated his appreciation for the warm welcome in Daimiel and explained that the choice of the Bienvenida family reflects their significance in bullfighting, with ten members having worn the traditional costume. He encouraged visitors to take their time with each poster to uncover the stories behind them.
Javier Romero, president of the Peña Taurina, thanked Sonseca for his commitment and the involvement of the Bienvenida family, asserting the association's role in promoting bullfighting culture through activities beyond mere events.
The inauguration also included the eleventh photographic competition 'An afternoon in images', showcasing 90 submitted photographs. Córdoba thanked the sponsors for their support and congratulated the winners, who will be recognised on 27 November, coinciding with the closing of the exhibitions. Both exhibitions will be open for viewing at the Casa de Cultura until that date, from Monday to Saturday, 18:00 to 20:00, and Sundays, 12:00 to 14:00.
