Montblanc Supports Culture Thru Awards
By Han Sang-hee
Staff Reproter
Montblanc, one of the most prestigious manufacturers of pens, jewelry and watches in the world, is also recognized for its support of various cultural and artistic areas worldwide.
Every year, the 102-year-old German company awards patrons of the arts with the Montblanc de la Culture Arts Patronage Award. Korea's Lee Se-ung, chairman of the Shinil Cultural Foundation and Seoul Cyber University received the award this year, along with 11 other cultural figures from different countries including France and England.
Lutz Bethge, CEO of Montblanc International, visited Korea for the event.
``Writing culture is part of the roots of culture itself. Our modern world is fast paced with the Internet and personal devices like Blackberrys. As the world becomes more exhilarating, we need to find a way to take a break from it, recharge our batteries and widen our minds again. I believe art and culture are ways that enables us to do this,'' said Bethge.
As one of the leading companies in art and craftsmanship, Montblanc began awarding those who supported culture by dedicating their time, effort and money to society.
``We wanted to snowball the effect (of these patrons), and we said `why don't we support them with an award?' These are the true patrons of art, and we wanted to give them the opportunity to talk to the public about why they believe supporting art and culture is important,'' he said.
Bethge said that Lee was not only dedicated to his cultural work, but also very modest about it.
``Mr. Lee doesn't want to go out in front of the press. (Art) is something in his heart and I respect and understand that completely. He supports and nurtures the industry, (and) it's not because he wants to impress anybody,'' he said.
The 67-year-old Lee has been continuously supporting the next generation of artists, musicians, and dancers, including prima ballerina Kang Su-jin of the Stuttgart Ballet. Realizing the importance of cultural exchange, Lee also supported exchange programs with overseas troupes, including the Bolshoi Ballet and Bolshoi Opera. Along with the award, Montblanc presents the winner with a ``Patron of Art Edition,'' a limited edition pen made of pure gold, along with a donation. The donation is given to a cultural organization or individual and this year it will be given to the Korea Ballet Association, upon Lee's request.
``E-mail is what many people use today. But putting your emotions into a letter means much more. We support those who appreciate this,'' Bethge said.