Gozitan sculptor Mario Agius and Italian sculptor Girio Marsili, concluded a two day work-in progress artistic project in the Valletta and Victoria open markets, participating in the latest action inspired by the sense of touch as part of the five senses project to mark the European Year of Intercultural Dialogue in Malta.

Together, they chiselled away at two pieces of Maltese limestone to create distinctive sculptures, using techniques inherent to their traditions and techniques. Both events drew a crowd of onlookers who observed the two sculptors at work. The creative dialogue highlighted the importance of cultural diversity at the workplace as an enriching experience both on a personal and professional level. The encounter also included a workshop with young Maltese sculptors at St. James Cavalier.

In the next event as part of the “touch” project in September, professional Maltese sculptor Savio Deguara will meet Ashraf S.E. Jaraiseh, a Palestinian olive wood carver from the Fair Trade Holy Land Handicraft Cooperative Society of Bethlehem to explore different cultures and the common heritage of the Mediterranean olive tree.

The 2008 European Year of Intercultural Dialogue in Malta is an initiative of the European Union and co-funded by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports. St. James Cavalier Centre for Creativity is the National Coordinating Body for the year.

For further information visit www.sjcav.org or www.dialogue2008.eu