Círculo de Bellas Artes de Tenerife Marks a Century of Cultural Influence

The Círculo de Bellas Artes de Tenerife, a cornerstone of cultural life in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, proudly celebrated its centenary on September 7, 2025. This landmark occasion not only commemorates a rich history but also sets the stage for a vibrant future in the arts and culture sector.

Highlights from the Centenary Festivities

The centenary celebration unfolded at the Círculo’s headquarters, located at Calle del Castillo, 43, drawing a diverse crowd that included representatives from various public administrations across the Canary Islands. Esteemed guests included Pepe Valladares, the president of the Círculo, alongside members from partner organizations such as the Fundación CajaCanarias and the Domingo Pérez Minik Cultural Observatory.

The event coincided with the grand reopening of the Círculo, which had undergone significant renovations as part of the “Nuevo Círculo” initiative. The festivities kicked off with an exhilarating live jazz performance by Atlantic Band Lab, which infused the atmosphere with energy and excitement. A commemorative plaque was unveiled on the building’s façade, symbolizing the institution’s enduring legacy. Following this, a formal session featured speeches from key figures, providing insights into the Círculo’s past and future. Attendees were also invited to explore the newly refurbished premises, culminating in a celebratory toast that marked the beginning of a new chapter for the Círculo.

Looking Ahead: A Vision for Cultural Engagement

During the celebration, Pepe Valladares articulated a compelling vision for the future of the Círculo, underscoring the necessity of fostering an inclusive environment for culture, art, and dialogue. He passionately stated, “Welcome to this new century that begins now, to an open space for all who wish to make culture, art, and thought the means to improve our lives; to create a better society; to respond to our concerns; to promote dialogue as a way to understand each other; to remember our best past, and to walk determinedly towards a fuller future. Welcome to the Nuevo Círculo!”

Valladares further emphasized a commitment to re-establishing the Círculo’s role as a pivotal player in cultural discourse. His vision includes transforming the institution into a vibrant hub for critical discussions surrounding art and societal issues. He encouraged collaboration among members and affiliated organizations, asserting that the Nuevo Círculo of the 21st century would be a platform for innovative ideas and diverse perspectives.

Guiding Principles for the Next Century

In outlining the future direction of the Círculo, Valladares identified three foundational principles that will guide its evolution: adapting the association’s original principles to meet contemporary needs, establishing itself as a center for critical debate on cultural and civic matters, and professionalizing its management to ensure effective operations and sustainable funding for activities. He highlighted the importance of building connections with all individuals and organizations engaged in the arts, fostering a collaborative spirit that can enhance the cultural landscape.

Additional insights were provided by prominent figures such as Rosa Dávila, president of the Cabildo de Tenerife; Migdalia Machín, the Regional Minister for Universities, Science, Innovation, and Culture; and José Manuel Bermúdez, the mayor of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Their contributions reinforced the Círculo’s vital role in shaping the cultural identity of the region and its commitment to serving the community.

Reflections on a Century of Cultural Contribution

The centenary event also featured poignant reflections from Pilar Carreño, a researcher dedicated to the history of the Círculo, and Margarita Ramos, president of the Fundación CajaCanarias. A heartfelt video message from journalist and writer Juan Cruz was shared, emphasizing the Círculo’s longstanding relationship with the city and its people. The mayor of Santa Cruz de Tenerife remarked on the Círculo’s foundational mission to serve as a creative space, stating, “It was born with a clear vocation, to be an open space for creation, a refuge for those who believe that art is a means to understand and transform the world.”

As the Círculo de Bellas Artes de Tenerife embarks on its next century, the commitment to cultural enrichment and community engagement remains steadfast. The centenary celebration not only honored the past but also illuminated a path forward, one that promises to embrace innovation while cherishing the institution’s rich heritage.

Key points

• The Círculo de Bellas Artes de Tenerife celebrated its centenary on September 7, 2025.
• The event was attended by representatives from various public administrations in the Canary Islands.
• Pepe Valladares emphasized the need for an inclusive space for culture and dialogue.
• The celebrations included a live jazz performance and the unveiling of a commemorative plaque.
• Future plans focus on adapting the Círculo’s principles to modern needs and fostering critical discussions on art and culture.
• Key figures from the local government shared insights on the Círculo’s impact on the community.