Josep Maria Cadena, a towering figure in Catalan journalism and a pivotal force in shaping the region’s media landscape, passed away at the age of 90. His death marks the end of an era for Catalan culture, as he left an indelible mark through his work as a journalist, critic, and advocate for satirical and artistic expression. Cadena’s career spanned decades, during which he became a trusted voice in the Catalan press, a mentor to generations of journalists, and a scholar of the nation’s visual and literary traditions.
A Life in Print: From Reporting to Satire
Cadena’s career began in the 1950s, a time of political and social transformation in Catalonia. Though he did not write for the newspaper ARA, his presence was unmistakable in its pages. Readers of Miquel Ferreres’ iconic cartoon series often encountered Cadena as a character—alongside his colleague Josep Pernau—capturing the absurdities of human behavior with a blend of wit, and wisdom. This partnership, which lasted for decades, became a cultural touchstone, reflecting the duo’s shared ability to distill complex societal issues into sharp, memorable sketches.
Pernau, who died in 2011, was a close collaborator, but Cadena’s influence extended far beyond the realm of cartoons. He was a co-founder of Avui, a daily newspaper that emerged in 1981 as a beacon of independent journalism in Catalonia. Avui became known for its commitment to quality reporting and its role in fostering public discourse during a period of political and cultural renaissance. Cadena’s vision helped shape the paper into a platform for critical thought and artistic exploration.
The Scholar of Catalan Cartoons
One of Cadena’s most enduring contributions was his deep engagement with Catalan cartooning. His monographs on the works of artists such as Opisso, Junceda, Apa, and Perich are considered foundational texts in the study of Catalan visual culture. These publications not only documented the technical and artistic achievements of these creators but also contextualized their work within the broader socio-political landscape of Catalonia.
“Cadena’s analyses were more than academic—they were a celebration of the resilience and creativity of Catalan artists,” said Dr. Maria Lluïsa Sureda, a cultural historian at the University of Barcelona. “He had a unique ability to connect the humor and satire in these works to the struggles and aspirations of the Catalan people.”
Cadena’s research often focused on satirical and editorial cartoons, a medium that he saw as both a mirror and a weapon. “Satire is the only weapon that can truly challenge power without fear of retaliation,” he once remarked in an interview with El País. His work helped elevate the status of cartooning from mere entertainment to a respected form of social commentary.
A Voice for the Arts and the People
Beyond his journalistic endeavors, Cadena was a passionate advocate for the arts. As a critic,
