Rauch and Thielemann are awarded the Constitutional Medal.

Prize given in Dresden - Rauch and Thielemann are awarded the Constitutional Medal.

Contemporary artist Neo Rauch and renowned conductor Christian Thielemann were both given the Saxon Constitutional Medal for their significant contributions to society in their respective fields.

Rauch, known for his commitment to realism, has garnered global attention and inspired a generation of painters in Leipzig. "You are one of the most important contemporary artists worldwide, yet you're still connected to your homeland," said Landtag President Matthias Roessler at the ceremony in Dresden. "With your perseverance and unwavering determination, you've raised Leipzig's artistic profile to new heights." His work is now part of prestigious museums and collections worldwide.

Thielemann, who's leaving his role as chief conductor at the Dresden State Orchestra, was recognized for his influential musical work. "You've brought the people of the Free State closer to music and given them a sense of stability," said Roessler. He will continue his career at the Berlin State Opera starting in the upcoming season.

Other recipients of the Silver Constitutional Medal on Saturday included Klaus Eulenberger, the long-serving chief veterinarian at Leipzig Zoo, and political scientist/extremism researcher Eckhard Jesse from Chemnitz. This prestigious award, given annually, honors individuals who've made significant contributions in social, artistic, scientific, economic, or political domains for the benefit of the Free State. It's one of the country's most significant state honors, with 190 women and men having received it so far.

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1. In addition to Rauch and Thielemann, other artists and notable figures such as Klaus Eulenberger from Leipzig Zoo and Eckhard Jesse from Chemnitz, have also received the Saxon Constitutional Medal for their contributions to their respective fields.
2. The Federal State of Saxony, which includes Dresden, is known for honoring individuals who have significantly influenced their communities in the domains of art, science, economics, or politics, as recognized by the Saxon Constitutional Medal.
3. As Matthias Rößler, the Landtag President, noted during the ceremony, Neo Rauch's art has garnered international recognition while keeping him connected to his roots in Saxony, contributing to the growth of Leipzig's artistic culture.
4. Christian Thielemann, a respected conductor who has served as the chief conductor at the Dresden State Orchestra, will continue his career at the Berlin State Opera starting in the upcoming season, leaving an indelible mark on the music scene in both Saxony and Germany as a whole.

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