Order of Isabella the Catholic Presented in Havana to Roberto Fabelo and Susana Pous

October 11, 2024

In an atmosphere marked by warmth, Havana was the setting for the presentation of the Order of Isabella the Catholic, one of the most prestigious decorations awarded by the Spanish government. This distinction, which recognizes notable merits in the cultural and social sphere, was granted to renowned Cuban visual artist Roberto Fabelo and to Spanish dancer and choreographer Susana Pous, two key figures in the artistic scene of the island.

The ceremony, held at the residence of the Spanish Ambassador to Cuba, brought together family members, colleagues and friends of the honorees, as well as personalities from the cultural world. The event was presided over by the Spanish Ambassador to Havana, Francisco Javier Hergueta, who highlighted the close relationship between both nations and the importance of art as a lasting bond between their peoples.

Master Roberto Fabelo, considered one of Cuba's most distinguished visual artists, received the Cross of Knight of the Order of Isabella the Catholic. During his remarks, Ambassador Hergueta praised the painter's trajectory, highlighting not only his technical mastery and originality, but also his human quality. "You have known how to create your own world; when you see a Fabelo, you immediately recognize it as yours. That imagination and quality are complemented by your humility and generosity. It is an honor for us to present you with this distinction," the diplomat expressed to those present.

Fabelo, true to his reserved style, thanked the recognition with brief but emotional words: "Visual artists tend to speak with images more than with words. Everything comes down to a single one: 'thank you'". He took the opportunity to acknowledge the unconditional support of his family and friends throughout his career and reflected on the meaning of this award: "I don't know if this distinction is given to me for what I have already done or for what I still have to do. It's a way of telling myself that there is still a path to travel, and for that reason I ask you to continue accompanying me".

Questioned by José Carlos de Santiago, president of Grupo Excelencias, Fabelo elaborated on the relevance of this tribute, recognizing the influence of Spanish culture on his own work. "This recognition comes from a place that has been a fundamental part of my life and our culture. I am deeply grateful for it after half a century of work and relentless pursuit of truth in art".

The other honoree of the evening was choreographer and professor Susana Pous, who has left a deep mark on the Cuban cultural landscape since her arrival on the island more than two decades ago. Pous, founder of her own dance company and promoter of spaces for artistic creation, was praised by Ambassador Hergueta, who highlighted her ability to transcend beyond her work as a dancer. "Susana not only dances; she has built an entire creative universe around herself. She has founded her own company, created training spaces and woven cultural networks. This recognition is a well-deserved tribute to her dedication and vision," the diplomat emphasized.

During her remarks, Pous thanked the people who have accompanied her throughout her career in Cuba. "Dance and culture don't happen by themselves; everything I have created has been possible thanks to the wonderful people around me," she stated. With a reflective tone, she called for valuing the role of art in a global context of crisis: "At a time when so many people in the world are suffering, culture must be above many things. Supporting artists is fundamental because art has a transformative power".

In a subsequent conversation, Pous confessed that the distinction was a pleasant surprise: "I didn't expect it. It is a great joy that Spain recognizes my work here in Cuba, because many times, being far from your country, you have the feeling that your work goes unnoticed". The choreographer shared that one of her most recent and significant projects is Villa Lola, a center for artistic creation and training where she has consolidated her dance company and established collaborations with the Spanish School. "It is a space to create, rehearse and take our productions around the world. We are building bridges between cultures and that is an essential part of my work here," Pous commented.

The ceremony was also an occasion to bid farewell to outgoing Ambassador Ángel Martín Peccis, who played a key role in the preparation of the event and in the management of the recognition granted by King Felipe VI in June of this year. Both Fabelo and Pous expressed their gratitude to him for having driven the presentation of this distinction.

In his closing remarks, Ambassador Hergueta highlighted the unique relationship between Cuba and Spain, a connection that, according to him, transcends diplomatic ties. "Cuba and Spain are more than sister countries; we have a special bond that cannot be compared to any other. We understand and appreciate each other in a profound way. The affection we have for this land has no equivalent anywhere," he stated emotionally.