Carmel Bonello is holding his latest art exhibition Art Pieces at the art gallery of Heritage Malta in Merchants Street, Valletta. His dynamic energy is always seeking that which is new as he pursues his personal style and originality. His artworks are filled with action, energy and force. The artist, a born expressionist, has his art studio and private art gallery in Mellieha. Carmel has already had personal art exhibitions in Malta, France and Germany. His art works are found in public and private collections in Malta and other countries. The exhibition will run until 8 April and is open from Monday to Friday from 8am to 4pm.

How old are you? Star sign and date of birth?

46 years, Leo, born in Siggiewi on 30 July 1960.

What would you like to be doing in 10 years’ time?

Creating works of art, travelling, fishing, and living an easy-going life by the sea.

What is your idea of perfect happiness?

I like fishing and the sea, which provides me with inspiration for my paintings. If I could spare the time I would spend it at sea, on a boat with my wife.

What is your favourite occupation?

Working in my art studio creating works of art and managing my gallery.

Significant other?

My wife Miriam and my two children Daniela, 17, and James, 15. They keep me going and give me the energy to create new art works.

What is your greatest fear?

Losing my loved ones and my happiness.

What is it that you most value in your friends?

That they are always there when I need them. True friends are like paintings, you have to treasure them.

How would you like to die?

I was born in Siggiewi and I would like to be in Ghar Lapsi when it happens, at sunset with my wife and children, with my dear sister Phyllis present, for without her there is no activity! We were very close when we were children and still are. So, after eating Maltese food and drinking some good wine I would like to drift away on a small boat to Filfla for my last voyage.

What is your greatest extravagance?

Travelling really, when I have the money.

What is your greatest regret?

That I never knew my mother, she died when I was only six years old.

What is your most treasured possession?

My mother’s portrait in pencil, which I made when I was young.

Which talent would you most like to have apart from the ones you already have?

To play the guitar and the piano, composing music. I love music, especially that of the 60s and 70s.

What do you regard as the

lowest depth of misery?

Hunger and thirst: water and food is what everyone in nature seeks.

Where would you like to live?

During the 1960s, Flower Power time with open spaces by the sea or country.

What is your most marked characteristic?

I talk fast, I’m full of energy, positive, kind, sensitive and easygoing.

Who are your heroes/heroines in real life?

Artists really, any kind! They keep the world and humanity full of joy with what they create.

What is it that you most dislike?

Selfishness and self-centred people.

What is your motto?

In life true happiness is found in what you already have and not in what you would like to have.