The 2009 Malta International (105 countries) Art Biennale is currently taking place until 28 February at the Mediterranean Conference Centre. The “Installation” section attracted acclaim and applaud by the international public with the gigantic bull sculpture by Joseph Barbara (Malta) and the flying glass sculptural sails by Vivia (Sweden).

Prizes in the 20 sections of the 2009 Malta Biennale were received by the Arts Sections. In her opening address, the founder-president Dame Francoise Tempra thanked the supporters of the biennale and trophies and thanks were presented to Leon Meynet (Switzerland), Joan and Paul Haber (Malta), Angelo Galea (Malta), Manuel Martins Barata (Portugal) and Mario Abela (Malta).

The first prize for painting went to Raphael Labro from France and Sergio Gauci from Malta. Labro, a resident for the last six years of Gozo was acknowledged for his style and impressions of ancient Goddesses of the region. The evening was a great success with several dignitaries present. Raphael Labro accepted the first prize trophy and especially thanked Dame Francoise.The second prize in Design went to Nancy Pisani for her works in glass and silver. The rest of the winners in all 20 sections will be announced next week.

The works are for sale and the exhibition will be open until 28 February daily from 10am to 5.30pm at the Cotoner Hall at the MCC, Valletta. Arrangements can be made for viewing the exhibition with a guiding facility by calling on 2157 9767, 7901 0140, 7903 1842.