Entrance Exams for the Alicante Guild of Artists Begin

Fátima Garaballu, Iván Gómez, and Antonio Benavente are three young individuals currently undergoing full examination to join the prestigious Alicante Guild of Artists. Over five days, these candidates are subjected to a rigorous test that will evaluate their artistic skills and their ability to become part of this select group.

The selection process is stringent and has become a tradition within the guild. The candidates must demonstrate their proficiency in various disciplines. Among the tests are the creation of a sketch and its respective plans, the modeling and finishing of a ninot, as well as the crafting of a carpentry piece. Additionally, they must formalize a Guild contract and complete a written multiple-choice exam.

These tests, which take place over a week, represent an all-encompassing challenge for these young aspirants who dream of joining the artists who bring Alicante's bonfires to life.

Next Monday, September 9, current members of the Guild, including prominent artists such as Pedro Espadero, Sergio Gómez, and master artist Joaquín Rubio, will gather to evaluate the work of the candidates. The results will be announced on the same day starting at 6 PM.

In recent years, the Alicante Guild of Artists has seen an increase in its membership. Last year, two young artisans joined, bringing the total number to 52. However, female representation remains limited, with only two women, Rocío Torreblanca and María del Carmen Baeza.

During last year's fraternity event, Rubio highlighted the sector's positive momentum, refuting the notion that Alicante's artists are at risk of extinction. According to him, training and growth are evident, advising young people to seize all opportunities regardless of budget. He also emphasized the importance of maintaining good practices and honoring contracts to preserve the guild's reputation, recalling issues from the previous year’s Fallas due to contract breaches.

Amidst this enthusiasm and growth, some challenges persist. While there is high demand for representative roles in major bonfire commissions, smaller ones like Campoamor Norte-Plaza de América, Altozano or Francisco Albert are still seeking women and girls to assume the role of belleas.