The European Medal
of Poetry and Art
LAUREATES
The European Medal of Poetry and Art, HOMER, will be awarded to outstanding creators in the world of literature and the visual arts. A jury will award the artists, whose works will be, with simplicity and beauty, universal messages to the world, reflecting the ancient patterns. The most important category is the level of artistry and the power of transmission, so that subsequent winners may enrich the pantheon of their spiritual father, Homer.
Uruguay, Laureate 2024
Ida Vitale (b. 1923) is an acclaimed Uruguayan poet, essayist, translator, and literary critic, widely regarded as one of the most important figures in Latin American literature. She is associated with the Generation of '45, a group of intellectuals and writers who sought to renew literature and poetry in Uruguay. Vitale’s poetry is characterized by its lyrical precision, philosophical depth, and exploration of existential themes, such as time, identity, and the nature of being.
Her notable works include La luz de este mundo (The Light of This World) and Las invisibles (The Invisible Ones), which have earned her numerous literary awards, including the prestigious Cervantes Prize in 2018. Vitale's literary contributions have made her a central figure in Latin American poetry, and her work continues to be admired for its elegance, introspection, and universal relevance.
Nigeria, Laureate 2023
Wole Soyinka (b. 1934) is a Nigerian playwright, poet, essayist, and political activist, widely regarded as one of Africa's most influential writers. In 1986, he became the first African to receive the Nobel Prize in Literature. Soyinka's works often explore themes of power, oppression, and cultural identity, blending traditional African storytelling with modernist techniques. Known for plays like Death and the King’s Horseman and The Lion and the Jewel, as well as his activism against authoritarian regimes, Soyinka remains a towering figure in global literature and human rights advocacy.
China, Laureate 2023
Xia Kejun (b. 1970s) is a prominent Chinese philosopher and scholar known for his work on contemporary aesthetics, art theory, and phenomenology. Drawing inspiration from both Western and Eastern philosophical traditions, he explores themes of perception, creativity, and the relationship between art and life. Xia’s writings often engage with the works of thinkers like Heidegger, Merleau-Ponty, and Zhuangzi, offering a unique synthesis of Chinese and Western thought. As an influential voice in China's intellectual circles, Xia contributes significantly to discussions on modern art, cultural identity, and the evolving role of philosophy in a global context.
Estonia, Laureate Post-mortem 2022
Jaan Kaplinski (1941–2021) was an esteemed Estonian poet, philosopher, and essayist, recognized as one of the most influential literary figures in Estonia. His work often explored themes of nature, human existence, and cultural identity, blending Eastern philosophy, environmental awareness, and European intellectual traditions. Kaplinski wrote in multiple languages, including Estonian, English, and French, and his poetry is marked by its simplicity and contemplative depth. A nominee for the Nobel Prize in Literature, Kaplinski played a significant role in Estonia's cultural and political discourse, particularly during its transition to independence.
Argentina, Laureate 2021
María Rosa Lojo (b. 1954) is an Argentine writer, poet, and literary scholar known for her compelling narratives that blend history, memory, and fiction. Her works often explore themes of identity, exile, and the intersection of personal and collective histories, with a focus on Argentina's cultural and political past. Among her notable novels are La pasión de los nómades and Canto invisible. Lojo is also a respected academic, contributing extensively to literary criticism. Her unique storytelling style and engagement with Argentina's historical complexities have earned her critical acclaim and a devoted readership.
NIKOS CHADZINIKOLAU
Poland, Laureate Post-mortem 2021
Nikos Chatzinikolaou (1935–2009) was a distinguished Greek art historian and critic, known for his expertise in Renaissance and modern Greek art. He played a pivotal role in bridging Western European art traditions with Greek cultural history, offering fresh perspectives on the works of major artists and their influence on Greek art and identity. As a professor and prolific author, Chatzinikolaou’s scholarly contributions significantly enriched the field of art history, earning him recognition in both Greece and internationally. His legacy endures through his meticulous research and critical insights into the evolution of artistic expression.
Germany, Laureate 2021
Reiner Kunze (b. 1933) is a renowned German poet, prose writer, and translator, celebrated for his poignant and concise style that often reflects themes of freedom, individuality, and resistance against oppression. Born in East Germany, Kunze's works were critical of the political regime, leading to his eventual exile to West Germany in 1977. His acclaimed works, such as The Lovely Years (Die wunderbaren Jahre), offer deeply personal yet universal insights into life under authoritarianism. Kunze has received numerous literary awards, including the Georg Büchner Prize, and is recognized for his enduring commitment to human rights and artistic integrity.
Spain, Laureate 2020
Antonio Gamoneda (b. 1931) is a celebrated Spanish poet, widely regarded for his profound and evocative poetry that explores themes of memory, loss, and the human condition. His work often delves into the personal and collective experiences of the Spanish Civil War and its aftermath, offering a somber reflection on suffering and history. Gamoneda’s style is marked by its austerity and stark imagery, with a focus on silence, isolation, and the passage of time.
He is best known for his collections Blues del desconcierto (Blues of Disarray) and Cuento del niño que soñaba con un trasatlántico (The Story of the Child Who Dreamed of an Ocean Liner). In 2006, Gamoneda was awarded the prestigious Premio Cervantes, the highest honor in Spanish literature, for his outstanding contributions to the world of poetry.
Canada, Laureate 2019
Patrick Lane (1939–2020) was a renowned Canadian poet and novelist, celebrated for his powerful and evocative writing that often explores themes of nature, human emotion, and the complexities of life in the Canadian landscape. Lane’s poetry is known for its raw, lyrical quality and its deep engagement with personal and collective histories. His works, such as The Collected Poems of Patrick Lane and Red Dog, Red Dog, reflect his experiences growing up in rural British Columbia, as well as his struggles with personal demons, including addiction.
A key figure in Canadian literature, Lane received numerous accolades, including the Governor General's Award for Poetry. His work continues to resonate with readers for its emotional depth, honesty, and beautiful, unflinching portrayal of human life and the natural world.
ADONIS
Syria, Laureate 2019
Adonis (Ali Ahmad Said Esber, b. 1930) is a Syrian-born poet, essayist, and translator, widely regarded as one of the most influential voices in modern Arabic literature. Known for his innovative use of language and exploration of themes such as identity, exile, and spirituality, Adonis has reshaped Arabic poetry by merging traditional forms with modernist techniques. His groundbreaking works, including The Songs of Mihyar the Damascene, challenge political and cultural norms while delving into universal human concerns. A perennial Nobel Prize contender, Adonis's contributions have earned him international acclaim and a central place in contemporary world literature.
KRZYSZTOF ZANUSSI
Poland, Laureate 2019
Krzysztof Zanussi (b. 1939) is a renowned Polish filmmaker, screenwriter, and producer, celebrated for his philosophical and intellectually engaging cinema. A leading figure in European arthouse film, Zanussi’s work often explores themes of morality, existentialism, and the clash between science and faith. Notable films like Illumination (Iluminacja) and Camouflage (Barwy ochronne) reflect his deep interest in human dilemmas and societal complexities.
As a key voice in Polish cinema, Zanussi has earned numerous international awards and continues to contribute to the cultural discourse through his films, teaching, and writing. His artistic vision remains a cornerstone of European intellectual filmmaking.
AMIR OR
Isarel, Laureate 2019
Amir Or (b. 1956) is an acclaimed Israeli poet, novelist, and translator, celebrated for his lyrical and thought-provoking works. His poetry often delves into themes of mythology, spirituality, love, and human existence, blending the personal with the universal. Or’s collections, such as The Museum of Time and Wings, have been translated into numerous languages, earning him a global readership.
A founder of the Helicon Poetry Society and its accompanying literary journal, Or has significantly influenced contemporary Israeli poetry. He is also a translator of classical works, including ancient Greek and Sanskrit texts, enriching cross-cultural literary dialogue.
GERMAIN DGROOGENBROODT
Belgium, Laureate 2019
Germain Droogenbroodt (b. 1944) is a Belgian poet, translator, and literary critic, known for his contributions to contemporary poetry and his dedication to fostering international literary exchange. He writes in both Dutch and German, and his works often explore themes of love, nature, existential questions, and the human condition. Droogenbroodt has translated works from several languages, particularly from Spanish, and his translations have brought poets such as Pablo Neruda and César Vallejo to a wider European audience.
He is also the founder of the "Poetry International" festival in Belgium, which promotes the works of poets from around the world. His literary impact has been recognized for its role in bridging different cultures and bringing poetry closer to readers across borders.
FERNANDO RENDON
Colombia, Laureate 2019
Fernando Rendón is a Colombian poet, editor, and cultural promoter, best known for his work as the founder and director of the prestigious Festival Internacional de Poesía de Medellín (Medellín International Poetry Festival), one of the most important poetry festivals in Latin America. A passionate advocate for the role of poetry in social change, Rendón has played a pivotal role in bringing together poets from diverse cultural and political backgrounds to foster dialogue and peace through literature.
As a poet, Rendón's works often explore themes of love, human solidarity, and the search for meaning in a world marked by violence and social injustice. His contributions to Colombian and Latin American culture have earned him recognition as a key figure in the promotion of poetry and the arts.
Spain, Laureate 2018
Juan Carlos Mestre (b. 1957) is a Spanish poet, essayist, and visual artist, known for his unique blend of lyrical and philosophical writing. His poetry often intertwines personal reflection with historical, political, and cultural commentary. Mestre’s work is marked by a deep engagement with nature, memory, and the passage of time, as well as an exploration of the surreal and the symbolic.
Mestre has published several collections, including La casa roja (The Red House), which won the Premio de la Crítica, and El paisaje de las delicias (The Landscape of Delights). His writing has earned him numerous accolades, and he is recognized as one of Spain's leading contemporary poets. Additionally, Mestre's visual art complements his literary work, adding another layer of depth to his creative expression.
SIMON J. ORTIZ
USA, Laureate 2018
Simon J. Ortiz (b. 1941) is a renowned Native American poet, novelist, and essayist, best known for his powerful voice in contemporary Indigenous literature. A member of the Acoma Pueblo in New Mexico, Ortiz's work explores themes of Native American identity, history, and the impact of colonization on Indigenous communities. His poetry is deeply rooted in his cultural heritage, reflecting both personal and collective experiences of survival, resistance, and resilience.
Ortiz’s notable works include From Sand Creek, Fight Back: For the Sake of the People, For the Sake of the Land, and The People Shall Continue. He is also known for his advocacy in preserving Native American languages and cultures through literature. A prominent figure in Native American literary circles, Ortiz’s contributions have earned him numerous awards and recognition, establishing him as a key voice in the cultural and political discourse of Indigenous peoples.
Canada, Laureate 2017
Tim Lilburn (b. 1950) is a Canadian poet, essayist, and professor, known for his profound and introspective works that explore themes of spirituality, nature, and the human experience. His poetry often grapples with the intersections of the natural world, the sacred, and the personal journey, offering a deep, philosophical perspective on existence. Lilburn’s writing is marked by its lyrical precision and its ability to evoke a sense of place, particularly the rugged landscapes of Canada.
Some of his notable works include Going Home (a collection of poetry), The Larger Conversation, and Where the Peacocks Sing. Throughout his career, Lilburn has received numerous accolades, including the Governor General’s Award for Poetry. His work continues to be influential in contemporary Canadian literature, particularly for its ability to blend the spiritual with the physical world in a thoughtful and resonant manner.
SONA VAN
Armenia-USA, Laureate 2017
Sona Van (b. 1983) is a contemporary Armenian poet, known for her lyrical and emotive poetry that explores themes of identity, memory, loss, and the human experience. Van’s work is deeply influenced by her cultural heritage and personal experiences, often reflecting on the complexities of living in the post-Soviet world and navigating the intersection of past and present.
Her poetry frequently delves into the emotional and psychological impacts of historical events, while also exploring universal themes such as love, displacement, and the passage of time. Sona Van’s writing has gained recognition for its raw emotional power and its ability to connect with readers on a deeply personal level.
TOMAS VENCLOVA
Lithuania-USA, Laureate 2017
Tomas Venclova (b. 1937) is a Lithuanian poet, essayist, and scholar, widely regarded as one of the most prominent figures in contemporary Lithuanian literature. His work reflects deep intellectual engagement with themes of exile, identity, history, and the human condition, often exploring the tensions between personal experience and larger political and cultural forces. Venclova’s poetry is known for its philosophical depth and lyrical precision, drawing on a rich tradition of European thought while addressing the complex realities of life in Soviet-occupied Lithuania.
In addition to his poetry, Venclova is an esteemed scholar and translator, with a particular focus on Russian and Polish literature. He was an active dissident during the Soviet era, advocating for freedom of expression and human rights, which led to his eventual exile to the United States. Venclova's works have earned international acclaim, and he has received numerous literary awards, solidifying his reputation as a key figure in Eastern European literature.
GURAM ODISHARIA
Georgia, Laureate 2017
Guram Odisharia (b. 1957) is a Georgian poet, novelist, and translator, known for his contributions to contemporary Georgian literature. His work is recognized for its emotional depth, exploration of human relationships, and reflections on the complexities of Georgian history and culture. Odisharia’s writing often touches on themes of identity, memory, and existential questions, as well as the political and social challenges faced by Georgia, especially in the context of the post-Soviet era.
In addition to his poetry, Odisharia has translated works from various languages into Georgian, helping to bridge cultural and literary divides. He is also known for his role in Georgian literary circles and has received acclaim for both his original works and his contributions to the literary community.
STANLEY.H.BARKAN
USA, Laureate 2016
Stanley H. Barkan (b. 1946) is an American poet, editor, and translator, recognized for his deep engagement with international poetry and his efforts to promote cross-cultural dialogue through literature. He is the founder and editor of Poets' Press and has played a key role in publishing and translating works from various languages into English. Barkan’s poetry is often marked by its personal introspection and exploration of themes such as love, identity, and the human condition.
As a translator, Barkan has worked to bring the voices of poets from diverse cultural backgrounds to a broader audience, emphasizing the importance of cultural exchange. His work in both poetry and translation reflects his commitment to the power of language to bridge gaps and foster understanding across different cultures.
GAGIK DAVTYAN
Armenia, Laureate 2016
Gagik Davtyan (b. 1947) is an Armenian poet, writer, and translator, known for his evocative poetry that often explores themes of identity, memory, and the human condition. His work reflects the complexities of Armenian history, culture, and the experiences of displacement and exile. Davtyan’s poetry is deeply rooted in his personal reflections, yet it resonates with universal themes of love, loss, and the search for meaning.
In addition to his poetry, Davtyan has translated a number of works from various languages into Armenian, contributing to the cultural exchange and enrichment of Armenian literature. His literary contributions have made him a significant figure in contemporary Armenian literature.
ATAOL BERGHAMOGLU
Turkey, Laureate 2016
Ataol Behramoğlu (b. 1942) is a prominent Turkish poet, translator, and essayist, widely recognized for his contributions to modern Turkish literature. Known for his lyrical and evocative poetry, Behramoğlu’s work often explores themes of love, human dignity, social justice, and political activism. His poetry is marked by its emotional depth, clarity, and engagement with social and political issues, reflecting his commitment to human rights and freedom.
In addition to his poetry, Behramoğlu is an accomplished translator, bringing the works of international poets such as Pablo Neruda, Bertolt Brecht, and Walt Whitman to Turkish readers. His literary work has earned him numerous accolades, and he remains a key figure in the Turkish literary scene, known for his commitment to both artistic expression and social change.
JIDI MAJIA
China, Laureate 2015
Jidi Majia (b. 1961) is a Chinese poet and essayist of the Yi ethnic minority, known for his contributions to contemporary Chinese literature. His work often reflects his deep connection to his cultural heritage and the struggles of the Yi people, while also addressing broader themes of identity, social justice, and the complexities of modern life in China.
Jidi Majia's poetry is characterized by its vivid imagery, symbolic language, and deep philosophical exploration. His collections, such as The Bright Moon of the Yi People and The Poetry of Jidi Majia, have garnered widespread recognition, both in China and internationally. A significant figure in Chinese literature, Jidi Majia has also been involved in various literary and cultural initiatives aimed at preserving and promoting the traditions of his ethnic group.
