Cabildo de Lanzarote Initiates Conservation Efforts for César Manrique’s Madrid Mural

Pedro
By Pedro
2 Min Read
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Oswaldo Betancort: “It is the duty of the Cabildo to safeguard the heritage and artistic legacy of César Manrique, not only in Lanzarote but anywhere in the world where his work is at risk of deterioration.”

The President and Councillor for Historical Heritage of the Cabildo of Lanzarote, Oswaldo Betancort, has announced that the island’s corporation will take initial steps to explore collaborative opportunities with both public institutions and private entities, as well as foundations, to ensure the preservation of the mural created by César Manrique in 1954 on Calle Santa Cruz de Marcenado in Madrid.

“It is the obligation of the Cabildo to ensure the preservation of César Manrique’s heritage and artistic legacy, not only in Lanzarote but also anywhere in the world where his work is at risk of vanishing. We seek to open avenues for cooperation to guarantee that this street-level mural, part of Spain’s artistic memory, receives the attention it deserves,” Betancort stated.

The initiative includes sending an official communication to the Madrid City Council to formally inquire about the current state of the mural and to understand the existing possibilities for its conservation and protection.

This work is suffering from neglect, and its condition has deteriorated further over the months. Advertisements attached to the ceramics, graffiti, and visible damage at the lower part of the building’s façade threaten to erase an essential chapter of Manrique’s legacy in the Spanish capital.

Betancort emphasised the historical and heritage significance of this work, which reflects the beginning of artistic modernity in 1950s Spain. He reiterated his commitment to explore all options, including the potential relocation of the mural to the island, provided it is deemed the most suitable option for its preservation.

“Manrique’s legacy transcends borders, and it is our collective responsibility to preserve it. Lanzarote is prepared to actively engage to prevent the loss of an essential part of our shared history,” concluded Betancort.

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