At the recent annual awards gala of the ‘Siglo Futuro Foundation for Human and Cultural Values’ for the year 2023, the work of the professionals of the Guadalajara Demarcation of the College of Architects of Castilla-La Mancha (COACM) was recognized for their dedication to the preservation and dissemination of the architectural heritage of the city and the province. Until three months ago, the award was collected by the president of the Demarcation, José Antonio Herce.
Since its creation in 1999, numerous individuals and entities have been awarded the ‘Siglo Futuro Foundation for Human and Cultural Values’ awards, in recognition of their exceptional service to society and their strong connection to Guadalajara and the Foundation.
On February 26, the Executive Committee of the Siglo Futuro Foundation unanimously decided to award one of the three annual prizes to the Guadalajara Demarcation of the COACM. The award ceremony took place at the closing gala of the 2023-2024 academic year at the Buero Vallejo Theater, highlighting the effort of the Guadalajara Demarcation, which brings together more than 150 architects and numerous professional societies, to bring architecture closer to the public through publications and various cultural initiatives.
During the event, Juan Garrido, president of the Siglo Futuro Foundation, praised the collaboration of José Antonio Herce and other members of the Demarcation in the ‘Spaces for Music’ series, which allowed for a deeper understanding of the local architectural heritage through guided tours and concerts.
Upon receiving the award, a bronze sculpture of the Doncel de Sigüenza by artist Pablo García Monreal, José Antonio Herce highlighted the duality between art and science inherent in the profession of architecture. Herce thanked the Siglo Futuro Foundation and recalled the importance of their activities in promoting culture and knowledge in Guadalajara.
Herce also referenced the selection process of the Buero Vallejo Theater project, which involved more than 65 proposals from local and national architects, as a reflection of the hard work and commitment of the Demarcation to the city.
The award was dedicated by Herce to Patricia García Caballero, the new president of the Demarcation, who expressed her gratitude to the Foundation and her commitment to continue collaborating in the dissemination of architectural knowledge.
The event also had the presence of Elena Guijarro, dean of the COACM, who emphasized that the award is a recognition of the legacy of José Antonio Herce and his work in defense of architecture in Castilla-La Mancha.
Source: MiMub in Spanish
