Watch & Jewelry
January 6, 2015
MONTBLANC | This Year's "Montblanc de la Culture Arts Patronage" Award Goes to Second-Generation Ichikawa Ennosuke
NEWS | Championing the Birth of "Super Kabuki" and Nurturing Young Talent Beyond Family Ties
Second-Generation Ichikawa En-o Receives Montblanc de la Culture Arts Patronage Award
The Montblanc Cultural Foundation, established by Montblanc, presents the "Montblanc de la Culture Arts Patronage Award" to individuals who dedicate their passion and commitment to supporting young talent and preserving traditional crafts in the realms of art and culture. This year marked the 22nd ceremony, with the award in Japan presented to the esteemed Kabuki artist, Second-Generation Ichikawa En-o, a leading figure in the Japanese theatre scene.
Text by YANAKA Tomomi
Award Recipients Honored with a Special Edition of the "Patron of Art" Series
The Montblanc Cultural Foundation annually recognizes individuals who contribute to the development and revitalization of culture and the arts, honoring them as "Art Patrons" for their dedication to nurturing future generations. Each year, one recipient is selected from twelve countries worldwide. In Japan, past honorees include Tamasaburo Bando (1997), Mansai Nomura (2007), Junko Koshino (2009), Mari Natsuki (2010), and Yoko Ono (2011). Internationally, recipients have included Prince Charles of the United Kingdom (2011), Quincy Jones (2012), and Agnès b. (2007).
Tamasaburo Bando
Mari Natsuki
Agnès b.
This year's award recipient is Second-Generation Ichikawa En-o, recognized for his dedicated efforts in the education and development of theatre professionals. Ichikawa En-o was instrumental in the creation of "Super Kabuki," a groundbreaking theatrical form that incorporates elaborate costumes, synthesizers, and laser lighting. He is also known for initiatives such as the "21st Century Kabuki Group," which casts not only actors from renowned theatrical families but also, notably, young talent emerging from the National Theatre's training programs. His commitment to nurturing and mentoring young actors has been cited as the reason for this prestigious award.
Along with the twelve recipients worldwide, including Ichikawa En-o, each was presented with €15,000 to be donated to a project of their choice. Additionally, they received a special edition of the "Patron of Art" series, a unique fountain pen created exclusively for this award. These pens are designed as collector's items, each year celebrating a different historical patron of the arts. This year's theme honors Ludovico Sforza, Duke of Milan, a prominent ruler of the Italian Renaissance and known patron of Leonardo da Vinci.
The "Montblanc de la Culture Arts Patronage Award," unique in its focus on "behind-the-scenes" art patrons, is so highly regarded that it is often referred to as the "Oscars of the Art World." It stands as a unique and meaningful tribute. We will continue to follow Montblanc's commitment to preserving tradition and passing on outstanding cultural heritage to future generations.
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