Meet the Creators
Miquel Àngel Adrover Perelló – The Poet
Miquel Àngel Adrover Perelló was born in Campos in 1994. He studied Catalan Language and Literature at the University of the Balearic Islands and now works as a secondary‑school teacher. Poetry is his passion, and he is an active member of the Glosadors Association of Mallorca. Over the years he has earned several awards for his written gloss, including the Josep Vivó prize in Menorca, two victories at the Festa des Vermar in Binissalem, the Miquel Bauçà 2023 award for “Les cares de la cugula,” and the Joan F. López Casasnovas prize in Ferreries in 2024. His first book, Ara he vies pas una merlera, appeared in 2019 with AdiA Edicions.
Rita Mercadal Juan – The Illustrator
Rita Mercadal Juan, born in Ciutadella in 1997, describes her art as a direct reflection of her personal experiences and her deep bond with Menorca’s landscape and feelings. She studied Design at LCI Barcelona and later trained as a Plastic and Visual Arts teacher in Madrid. Rita loves turning ideas and emotions into visible forms, using drawing and illustration as her main tools for exploration. Her work has been shown in exhibitions across Barcelona and Menorca, and she has taken part in projects such as the Balconades d’Art Jove d’Alaior (2021), the Street Art festivals in Ciutadella (2020 and 2023), and live painting sessions at Migjorn Gran (2024).
How the Stamp Came to Be
The Jury’s Choice
On May 28, a qualifying jury led by Mayor Maria Jesús Bagur gathered to select the artwork for this year’s Missa des Caixers stamp. The panel looked for a piece that captured the spirit of the Saint John festivities while showcasing local talent. The winning entry combined Miquel’s poem with Rita’s illustration, creating a harmonious blend of words and images.
Inspiration from Sant Joan Festivities
The Saint John celebration, with its bonfires, music, and community gatherings, served as the main muse for both creators. Miquel’s verses echo the lively atmosphere and traditional rituals, while Rita’s drawing visualizes the night’s glow, the dancing figures, and the island’s natural beauty that surrounds the festivities.
A Look at Miquel’s Work
Education and Teaching
After completing his degree, Miquel chose to teach, sharing his love for language and literature with young students. His classroom often becomes a space where pupils experiment with poetry, gloss, and creative writing, reflecting his belief that words can empower the next generation.
Awards and Publications
Beyond the honors already mentioned, Miquel continues to participate in literary contests and workshops across the Balearic Islands. His published poem collection offers readers a glimpse into everyday life in Menorca, mixing humor, nostalgia, and sharp observation.
A Look at Rita’s Work
Artistic Style and Influences
Rita’s style blends clean lines with vivid colors, often highlighting the textures of the island—its stone walls, Mediterranean flora, and sea‑lit skies. She draws inspiration from personal memories, local folklore, and the ever‑changing light of Menorca’s landscapes.
Exhibitions and Projects
Her participation in street art events and live painting sessions has allowed her to interact directly with audiences, turning public spaces into temporary galleries. These experiences have helped her refine her technique and expand her reach beyond traditional illustration venues.
Why This Stamp Matters
Connecting Tradition and Youth
By featuring a contemporary poet and a young illustrator, the stamp bridges generations. It shows that the island’s customs can be expressed through fresh voices, encouraging teens to see themselves as keepers and innovators of cultural heritage.
What It Means for the Community
The stamp will travel with letters and postcards throughout the year, spreading a piece of Menorca’s Saint John spirit far beyond the local celebrations. It also highlights the island’s commitment to supporting artists, giving them a platform to share their work with a wider audience.
Conclusion
The collaborative stamp for this year’s Missa des Caixers brings together Miquel Àngel Adrover Perelló’s heartfelt poetry and Rita Mercadal Juan’s evocative illustration. Their combined effort captures the joy, tradition, and natural beauty of the Saint John festivities while offering a modern, teen‑friendly perspective. As the stamp circulates, it will remind everyone that culture thrives when creativity is nurtured and shared.
Images Credit: www.menorca.info