In a dazzling fusion of art and tequila, Maestro Dobel Tequila and El Museo del Barrio have joined forces to celebrate the vibrancy and creativity of Latinx artists. The nation's premier Latinx and Latin American cultural institution, El Museo del Barrio, has proudly named Carlos Martiel as the inaugural recipient of the Maestro Dobel Latinx Art Prize. This groundbreaking prize not only honors the extraordinary talents of Latinx artists but also addresses the historical underrepresentation of this community in the art world. Carlos Martiel's remarkable artistry, coupled with the partnership's shared commitment to championing Latinx creatives, makes this collaboration a milestone in the art world.
Maestro Dobel Tequila, a beacon of innovation in the tequila industry, was born from 11 generations of tequila mastery in Jalisco, Mexico. With a legacy spanning over 250 years, this modern expression of tequila has introduced pioneering creations like the first Cristalino tequila with Dobel Diamante, the first Smoked Tequila with Humito, and the first Pechuga Tequila with Pavito. Maestro Dobel's commitment to excellence and tradition mirrors the dedication to artistry and cultural heritage celebrated at El Museo del Barrio.
Carlos Martiel, a Cuban-American artist whose work delves into the intricate layers of racism, racialization, gender, immigration, and colonialism in the Americas, is the deserving recipient of the $50,000 grant and the opportunity to showcase his talent in El Museo del Barrio's Room 110 multidisciplinary space, set to unveil in Spring 2024. Martiel's art sparks important conversations and underscores the vital role of Latinx art in today's society.
Patrick Charpenel, the Executive Director of El Museo del Barrio, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership and the selection of Carlos Martiel, stating, "Martiel's work beautifully explores the complexity and nuance of racism and racialization, gender, immigration, and the legacy of colonialism in the Americas. We are grateful for our partnership with Maestro Dobel Tequila, who shares our commitment to supporting Latinx artists in the United States."
The Maestro Dobel Latinx Art Prize underscores the commitment to diversity in the arts, amplifying Latinx voices that have been historically underrepresented. It is a beacon of hope for Latinx artists across the United States and Puerto Rico, a testament to their immense talent and potential. This award is a call to action for inclusivity, acknowledging the rich tapestry of Latinx artistry and the stories it tells.
The jury committee, composed of luminaries in the art world such as Cesar Garcia, Mari Carmen Ramirez, Alejandra Martinez, and Patrick Charpenel, painstakingly selected Carlos Martiel from a talented pool of Latinx artists nominated by leading curators and experts from across the United States. Their decision reflects the artist's profound impact and contributions to the world of contemporary art.
Juan Dobel, the Founder of Maestro Dobel Tequila, expressed his pride in awarding Carlos Martiel the inaugural Maestro Dobel Latinx Art Prize, stating, "This is just the beginning of what I'm confident will be a significant step forward for our artists, our community, and all the talented individuals it comprises." The partnership between Maestro Dobel Tequila and El Museo del Barrio signifies a commitment to supporting Latinx communities through art and culture, providing a platform for Latinx artists to shine brightly.
Carlos Martiel, upon receiving the prestigious award, expressed his honor and dedication to his community. He said, "I am honored to have been selected as the inaugural winner of the Maestro Dobel Latinx Art Prize, an award that celebrates my community and stresses the crucial role of Latinx art in the creative world." Martiel's passion for driving meaningful conversations and highlighting the importance of representation in the art world is inspiring.
As the journey continues, El Museo del Barrio and Maestro Dobel Tequila will celebrate Carlos Martiel at El Museo's Gala, held at The Plaza in New York City on the evening of Thursday, September 7, 2023. This gala will honor the accomplished artist Coco Fusco for Excellence in the Arts and Juan Beckmann for Outstanding Patron of the Arts.
The Maestro Dobel Latinx Art Prize stands as an epochal moment within the art sphere, serving as a dynamic bridge connecting the realms of tradition and innovation, culture, and boundless creativity. Through Carlos Martiel's profound artistic expression, we witness a testament to the indomitable spirit, rich diversity, and profound profundity of Latinx voices.
This remarkable collaboration between Maestro Dobel Tequila and El Museo del Barrio not only serves as a jubilant celebration of Latinx artistry but also forges a path toward a brighter, more equitable future where Latinx artists stand recognized, celebrated, and empowered, their creative influence steadfastly shaping the very fabric of our cultural landscape. With each stroke and sculpture, the art world embarks on an uncharted journey toward inclusivity, and the inaugural Maestro Dobel Latinx Art Prize stands as an illuminating beacon, heralding this extraordinary odyssey of transformation.