“The MCAST Institute of Art and Design provides an educational foundation for a range of creative, technical and management careers in art, craft and design. It aims to develop a range of skills and techniques, personal qualities and attitudes essential for successful performance in professional working life,” said Education Minister Louis Galea when he officially inaugurated the exhibition of end-of-year projects by MCAST students following courses at the Institute of Art and Design.

This is the sixth exhibition for the institute since MCAST was set up in 2001. “The aim is to strike a balance between the pressures to offer vocationally-linked training and the central task of providing a genuine education into the meanings of art at a personal and creative level” continued Dr Galea.

All specialist areas and materials workshops, namely limestone, ceramics, wood, metal, textiles and jewellery are well represented in the exhibition. Students have demonstrated appropriate practical and technical skills, theoretical understanding, research skills and an ability to analyse and evaluate their work. There is also evidence of critical awareness with an ability to research selectively and efficiently while communicating informed and reflective perceptions.

The MCAST Institute of Art and Design provides internationally-recognised training in a number of specialist art and design areas at various competence levels, from the BTEC First Diploma to the Higher Nationals. “The number of students attending the Institute of Art and Design has risen from year to year. The quality of work on show is also as exciting as it has always been. Indeed there is evidence of consistency in terms of creativity and innovation, as well as range and quality outcomes,” concluded the minister.

The exhibition will remain open at St James Cavalier until 22 July from 9.30am to 9pm.