Josef Winkler receives Carinthian Culture Prize: A literary legacy!

Josef Winkler receives Carinthian Culture Prize: A literary legacy!

On Friday evening, the 2024 regional culture award was awarded to the renowned writer Josef Winkler in the Carinthian Music Academy. This significant award was given to him for his outstanding literary achievements, which Carinthia represented on an international parquet. In his acceptance speech, the author emphasized that his works are not only characterized by Carinthia, but rather are shaped by his personal experiences in this region. "I wrote books about myself in Carinthia," said Winkler, who established himself as an indispensable voice of culture in Carinthia. Despite a prehistory of political opposition within the ÖVP, which in the past boycotted a vote on his award, Winkler finally received the honor with the votes of the SPÖ, as of ktn.gv.at .

funding prices and special recognitions

In addition to Winkler's award, a total of 13 prices with a total value of 91,000 euros were awarded. The funding prices of 5,000 euros each went to many talented cultural workers, including Terese Kasalicky for Fine Art and Barbara Juch for literature. The recognition award for remarkable achievements in the field of free cultural work was evenly awarded to the cultural associations "Zarja" and "Persman". Furthermore, Elias Molitschnig received the award for his services to the building culture, while Christina Beretta and Cvetka Lipuš were awarded for their outstanding achievements in the humanities and social sciences as well as in literature. These appointments should express the cultural diversity and creativity in Carinthia, according to reported orf.at .

Governor and Culture Officer Peter Kaiser made it clear that the awards are a sign of appreciation for the cultural contributions of the award winners and emphasize the central role of art in society. "Art and culture are an essential part of the DNA of Carinthia," added Kaiser and praised Winkler's critical spirit, who is indispensable for progressive and responsible politics. The ceremonial handover of the prices will take place this year and promises to further highlight the importance of cultural achievements in Carinthia.