José Luis Sanz, the mayor of Sevilla, has asserted the city's international leadership in the realm of sacred art during the VI Gala del Arte Sacro. This event celebrates the talent, careers, and excellence of professionals who uphold this centuries-old tradition.
“Sevilla is a global powerhouse of sacred art, inheriting a tradition that remains alive thanks to the talent, creativity, and mastery of our artists and craftsmen. This gala is the major meeting of the sector and a tribute to those who keep this legacy alive,” said Sanz.
The mayor emphasised the city council's commitment to this sector, announcing a new municipal grant programme worth €100,000, with individual workshop grants of up to €6,500. These funds aim to support the digitalisation and modernisation of workshops and encourage the employment of unemployed youth under 30 in artisanal trades.
“We cannot allow these trades, which are part of our identity, to fade away. We want to help our workshops modernise and, above all, facilitate the incorporation of young people to ensure generational continuity,” Sanz stated.
Recognition for outstanding professionals in sacred art
During the gala, the title of Master Craftsman was awarded to José Delgado, Enrique Castellanos, and Antonio Javier Salgado, in recognition of their professional excellence and contributions to the field.
“They are an example of knowledge, dedication, and love for unique trades that we have a responsibility to preserve,” the mayor highlighted.
Additionally, Sanz presented a special recognition to Juan Manuel Miñarro, a leading figure in Spanish imagery and contemporary sacred sculpture, known for his recent work on the statue of Pope John Paul II at the Valencia Cathedral. Juan Ignacio Zoido received the Arfe Award for his dedication to and advocacy for sacred art.
The mayor recalled Zoido's collaboration in making possible an exhibition promoted by the Sevilla City Council at the European Parliament in Brussels, showcasing masterpieces from Sevilla's Holy Week. This initiative also featured a performance by the Agrupación Musical Virgen de los Reyes, which performed at the European Parliament and held a concert at the church of Nuestra Señora de Sablón.
“I will never forget the end of that concert, with the march ‘Vida’ by Alejandro Blanco, concluded with the hymn of Europe. It was an unforgettable moment and a symbol of what we achieved: bringing the culture, music, and traditions of Sevilla to the heart of Europe,” Sanz recalled.
A cultural, identity, and economic asset
The mayor underscored that sacred art is much more than a mere expression of faith: “It is heritage, identity, culture, tradition, and economy. Behind every image, embroidery, crown, or float lies talent, hours of work, and extraordinary mastery that projects Sevilla's name worldwide.”
In this regard, he also highlighted a major exhibition currently on display at the Sevilla City Council, showcasing the municipal commitment to promoting and disseminating this heritage.
“We have a responsibility to protect these trades, promote their future, and ensure that the next generations can keep this heritage alive. The City Council and this mayor will always stand by our artists and craftsmen. We will defend Sevilla's sacred art wherever necessary to maintain its global leadership,” Sanz concluded.
“You are a fundamental part of Sevilla. With your talent and work, you keep alive an essential part of what we are as a city,” he added.
