Opposition Calls for Return of Miguel Hernández’s Artworks to Orihuela

Introduction

This October, the heart of Orihuela will resonate with the call to reclaim its cultural heritage. As reported by LA VERDAD, opposition parties PSOE, Ciudadanos (Cs), and Cambiemos are set to formally request that the Alicante Diputación return 50 significant paintings created in honor of poet Miguel Hernández. These artworks, produced in 1992 for the 50th anniversary of Hernández’s death, hold historical and sentimental value for the community.

Background of the Issue

The paintings in question were temporarily housed with the Diputación when the Miguel Hernández Cultural Foundation lacked adequate space. The artists involved in this venture firmly expressed their desire for the pieces to become part of the foundation’s permanent collection. According to Mar Ezcurra, a Ciudadanos councilor, the return of these artworks is not just a matter of cultural significance but also a matter of fairness toward the artists and the poet himself.

List of Artists Contributing to the Exhibition

The exhibition featured works from various esteemed artists, including:

• Miguel Abad Miró
• Albert Agulló Martínez
• José Iranzo Almonacid (Anzo)
• Rafael Armengol Machi
• Nassio Bayarri
• Arcadi Blasco i Pastor
• Joan Brossa i Cuervo
• Mario Candela Vicedo
• Adriano Carrillo Valero
• María Chana
• …and many more

Political Response and Urgency for Action

Councilors Isidro Grao (PSOE), Mar Ezcurra (Cs), and Leticia Pertegal (Cambiemos) have voiced their concerns about the lack of attention from the Alicante Diputación and the Valencian Government regarding the cultural importance of Miguel Hernández to Orihuela. Pertegal emphasized the dismissive attitude the Diputación shows toward the city’s heritage, criticizing them for treating Hernández as “persona non grata.”

Grao adds that it is vital for the city to reclaim these artworks to ensure they are displayed in their rightful place within the Miguel Hernández Cultural Foundation, fulfilling the artists’ wishes and preserving Orihuela’s legacy.

Conclusion

The call to return the paintings represents a significant moment for Orihuela, highlighting the intersection of politics, culture, and community identity. As the opposition groups push forward, the hope remains that the Alicante Diputación will respond favorably to this plea for cultural restitution.

Key Themes

• Miguel Hernández
• Cambiemos Orihuela
• Ciudadanos Comunitat Valenciana
• Fundació Miguel Hernándes
• Ayuntamiento de Orihuela