The Consell de Mallorca presented on Monday the portraits of the last four former presidents of the island institution, Francina Armengol (2007-2011), María Salom (2011-2015), Miquel Ensenyat (2015-2019), and Catalina Cladera (2019-2023).
During an institutional event in the courtyard of the Misericòrdia, the island’s president, Llorenç Galmés, unveiled the four portraits alongside the former presidents and the artists behind the works that will be displayed in the Consell’s Boardroom.
Prior to the portrait presentation, in order of seniority, the former presidents highlighted the importance of the Consell as an institution and its close relationship with the municipalities throughout the island.
Armengol described the Consell as a «useful institution for the people» and emphasized its representation of the uniqueness of each island, making it «significantly relevant.» She also emphasized the collaboration with the municipalities as a «fundamental» part of the institution.
Salom focused on the Consell’s relationship with the municipalities, stressing the close bond between mayors and island presidents. She stated, «A union to solve people’s problems.»
Ensenyat echoed these sentiments, highlighting the coordination with the municipalities as one of the Consell’s main responsibilities, noting that without the island institution, many municipalities would struggle to provide services.
The most recent former president, Catalina Cladera, emphasized the significant growth of the island institution in areas such as social services, tourism, mobility, and culture. Like her predecessors, she underscored the Consell’s proximity to the citizenry and its essential role.
The former presidents unveiled their portraits alongside the artists they selected. Specifically, Rafael Bestard created Armengol’s portrait, José María Fayos painted Salom’s, Carmen Cañadas crafted Ensenyat’s, and Luis Maraver designed Cladera’s.
All of them expressed their gratitude to the artists for their work, highlighting their satisfaction and appreciation for the completed portraits.
To conclude the event, Galmés thanked the four former presidents for their leadership of the institution, noting that during the past four terms, the Consell had experienced significant growth, increased funding, and a strong push in assuming responsibilities.
He took this opportunity to reaffirm the Consell’s commitment to pursuing outstanding competencies. «There is still much ground to cover,» he stated.
Among other accomplishments, he highlighted the declaration of the Serra de Tramuntana as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2011 and advancements in social services, equality, youth initiatives, and tourism promotion and management in previous terms.
«The Consell de Mallorca wishes to express its gratitude for dedicating part of your lives to working for the common good,» he thanked the former presidents, while also noting the Consell’s revival of the tradition of displaying these portraits after a 23-year hiatus. «It symbolizes recognition of your work,» he concluded.