José Payá Bernabé Posthumously Receives the Azorín de Monóvar Medal
In Castellón, the landscape of recognition grows richer as monovero Lluis Sogorb keeps collecting awards and prizes, adding yet another distinguished honor in Vila-real. The latest celebration occurred at the EDC Natura Gala, a renowned international event dedicated to celebrating nature photography. The gala is held in Vila-real, Castellón, and it draws participants and guests from diverse corners of the world who share a passion for nature documentation and conservation. This year, the setting was marked by a deep appreciation for the craft, with photographers who push the boundaries of visual storytelling and environmental awareness receiving well deserved nods. [Citation: EDC Natura Gala records, Vila-real]
The twelfth edition of the International Symposium on Nature and Photography shone a light on a broad spectrum of talent. Within this gathering, the Management Consortium of the Protected Landscape of the Mouth of Mijares highlighted the ongoing efforts to safeguard the region’s natural habitats. The collaboration between conservation bodies and creative professionals underscores a shared commitment: to reveal the beauty of ecosystems while advocating for responsible stewardship. The collaboration is a reminder that art and conservation can reinforce each other, amplifying the message to broader audiences around the world. [Citation: International Symposium on Nature and Photography proceedings]
Images captured during the EDC Natura Gala in Vila-real, Castellón, reveal the atmosphere of celebration and documentary rigor. The evening’s imagery underscores the role of photographers as narrators of place, with each frame telling a story about habitats, species, and the delicate balance that sustains them. Rafael Jover provided visual reportage that complemented the event’s celebratory tone, helping to document the moment for posterity. [Citation: Gala photography notes]
During the ceremony, the “EDC Natura Disclosure Award” honored the career of Lluis Sogorb Mallebraera as a nature illustrator who has consistently contributed to the public understanding of natural environments through images and dialogue. The prize acknowledged a long-standing dedication to portraying nature with clarity, sensitivity, and a sense of wonder that resonates with audiences and peers alike. [Citation: EDC Natura Disclosure Award records]
In addition to these recognitions, the event paid homage to José Payá Bernabé, who was posthumously awarded the Azorín de Monóvar Medal. The moment served as a poignant reminder of the lasting impact of individuals who have enriched the cultural and environmental landscape of the Comunidad Valenciana. [Citation: Azorín de Monóvar Medal notices]
Also celebrated at the gala were Odile Rodriguez de la Fuente and three members of the group known as Man and the Earth, recognized for extraordinary contributions that connect audiences with nature issues and conservation efforts. The show continued with a heartfelt homage to the late Félix Rodríguez de la Fuente, a figure whose legacy in nature programming remains influential. The event concluded with warm remarks from the Mayor of Vila-real, Jose Benlloch Fernandez, who expressed appreciation for the dedication and hard work of the organizers and participants who made the evening meaningful for attendees and supporters alike. [Citation: Gala closing remarks]
Across the proceedings, the blend of awards, tributes, and documentary photography underscored a common message: nature carries stories worth sharing, and creative professionals play a crucial role in inviting the public to see, value, and protect the natural world. The evening’s reflections encouraged ongoing collaboration between artists, conservationists, and communities, reinforcing the idea that photography can be a powerful instrument for environmental awareness and cultural enrichment. [Citation: Gala reflections]