Keith Balzan muses about his present exhibition ‘Genesis’

“I can say that I was ‘pushed’ into setting up this exhibition. In June 2005, my family and friends finally convinced me. This coincided with the construction of my studio – a fairly sized room at roof level. This space gave me the means of escape, helping me delve into profound and personal experiences, which I then transmitted to paper, canvas or panel. Gradually, I developed a necessity to paint on a daily basis, it is a ritual which cannot be missed. I must add that I am lucky enough to be constantly supported by a very understanding wife.

Genesis represents my virtual birth in the artistic world. I hope it reflects someone who ponders but who sometimes also acts instinctively and irrationally. In this regard, I am presenting a wide collection ranging from abstracts to portraits and landscapes, the common denominator being a strong design with sharply defined linearity and geometric properties throughout. The media used is varied and even the chromatic palette shifts wildly from vivid, bright, colours in some works, to dark and murky hues in others.

Drawing has always been a passion of mine and as a self-taught artist I continually challenge myself to improve, thus becoming my harshest critic; I sometimes destroy or completely rework some paintings in the process. I think that the hardest part of setting up an exhibition is making sure that quality is not sacrificed; thus, each and every exhibit should be regarded and appreciated as an individual piece of work.

My artistic expression is the result of many years spent experimenting with various media. In fact I use a variety of media in order to obtain certain desired effects.

My art is constantly evolving as I try new techniques and observe diverse artistic elements and statements from around the globe. Picasso, Munch, Marc, Kandinsky and Pollock are my favourite artists. Cubism, Expressionism and Abstract Expressionism are the artistic styles with which I communicate more comfortably. However, I do appreciate all artistic genres ranging from cave painting to installations, although I am still quite skeptical about video installations.

My inspiration comes from everyday life, people’s characters, their experiences, their joys, sorrows and moods which I attempt to portray and ‘immortalise.’ Contemporary social issues and Malta’s rich cultural heritage also act as my muse and are recurring elements in my works.

I feel that my art forcefully reflects my mood, spontaneity and burning passion for the creative interpretation of everyday life. My paintings embark on strange journeys and change drastically until they reach completion. There is a struggling and vigorous process in every work, making it both unique and special.

My works convey subtle messages. Their titles are also meticulously chosen. My art is conceived through emotion and passion. It can look good and harmonious, but it can also be as crude and painful as life itself!

Keith Balzan’s exhibition runs at St James Cavalier Centre for Creativity until 15 August. It is open from 10am to 9pm. He may be contacted on Mob: 99890920 or e-mail: [email protected]. Website: www.keithbalzan.com