The photograph "Total Disarmament," taken in Madrid's Puerta del Sol, has been awarded a Special Mention at the Ramón Rubial Award. The work, created by a photographer from Majadahonda, was honored on April 30, 2026, in Las Rozas. The image is praised for its ability to "capture a moment of high symbolic and political charge in the center of Madrid, focusing on a message of peace and social mobilization."
The composition of the photograph uses a shallow depth of field, keeping a flag in "sharp focus while blurring the crowd, highlighting the message over the individual." Visual contrast is achieved with "the pure white of the fabric highlighting the red of the heart, a universal symbol of life and love, amidst a sober urban environment."
The presence of anonymous citizens and the Venezuelan flag suggests a peaceful but firm protest, where the desire for a future without weapons is the common thread.
The award ceremony for the XXIV Ramón Rubial Photography Contest took place on April 30, 2026. This well-established competition in the municipality saw significant participation from photographers. The organization of the contest was managed by the Culture secretariat of a local political party, which emphasized "the importance of continuing to promote cultural spaces that foster creativity, reflection, and citizen participation through art."
The jury for this edition was composed of photography professionals, who highly valued the quality and diversity of the submitted works. The first prize went to "Between Heaven and Earth," the second to "Other Peoples: Iran," and the third to "Ruins of Babylon." The Special Mention was awarded to "Total Disarmament."
