The José Martí Cultural Society honored the distinguished artist and educator from Holguin with the “Usefulness of Virtue” award. In a moving ceremony held at the “El ALBA” Regional Academy in Holguin. Lauro Hechavarría Osorio received the prestigious “Usefulness of Virtue” award, granted by the José Martí Cultural Society. The distinction is a well-deserved tribute to his exemplary artistic and pedagogical career. As well as his unwavering social commitment and human greatness.
The event was attended by prominent faculty members from the academy’s General Education department and the Deputy Director of Artistic Education in Holguin. Lissandra Calis Gendis, who accompanied the maestro during this significant moment of recognition for his life and work.
Lauro Hechavarría Osorio, born in Holguin on July 8th, 1943. Graduated from the “El Alba” Academy of Fine Arts in 1965 and from the National School of Art in Havana in 1971.
With over four decades of teaching experience, he has taught sculpture, anatomical drawing, representational techniques, and lettering. Establishing himself as an undisputed leader in the training of new generations of artists.
A multidisciplinary artist, Hechavarría has combined his teaching with the creation of small and large-format works. With particular prominence in monumental sculptures of a commemorative and environmental nature.
His works, located in public spaces throughout the city of Holguin, constitute an aesthetic legacy. That transcends the purely artistic, becoming a bridge for reflection and values.
The José Martí Cultural Society, an institution founded in 1997 with a strong presence in the province of Holguin. Bestows this high distinction upon individuals who, like Maestro Hechavarría, embody Martí’s principles of placing talent at the service of culture and society.
“Virtue is not an ornament, it is a tool for transforming the world,” those present expressed during the ceremony. Highlighting how Lauro’s career demonstrates that art and Martí’s values go hand in hand.
The “El Alba” Professional Academy of Visual Arts, founded on January 28th, 1961, has been the space where Maestro Hechavarría has developed most of his pedagogical work. From its classrooms, he has contributed to forging the artistic identity of the eastern region. Training numerous generations of artists who today are part of the Cuban cultural landscape.
By: Daimy Peña Guillén
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