From Mr P. A. Attard

I refer to the unsigned front-page story titled “Caravaggio: the battle of the exhibitions” (TMIS, 14 October).

I am writing in the name of The Saint John’s Co-Cathedral Foundation. I can assure you that the foundation was at no time involved in any “great battle between two different sets of exhibition organisers and all they stand for” and I can easily assume that neither did Heritage Malta with whom the foundation has excellent relations.

May I suggest that the two exhibitions complement each other and are a very appropriate commemoration of Caravaggio’s achievement during his stay in Malta, and the impact he had on contemporary and later major artists and art.

Contrary to what is stated in the story, the foundation was never involved in “throwing underhand brickbats” at any other institution or organisation, let alone Heritage Malta. I simply do not know how one could attribute or imply such an unprofessional attitude to the foundation.

I would also like to correct other mistakes in the story. The foundation’s exhibition is supported by a pocket booklet containing very interesting information on the exhibition in general as well as on the exhibited paintings. This booklet is given free to all visitors. Moreover, visitors can enjoy the specifically recorded audio commentary on the exhibition and the exhibits. All this is included in the usual standard ticket. The foundation feels that a visit to St John’s should be an educational, spiritual and pleasurable experience.

The Malta Independent on Sunday was invited to attend a symposium held at the President’s Palace where experts on Caravaggio, Caravaggism and paintings of realism in Malta delivered their stimulating papers. The symposium was even blessed with the presence and contribution of experts in the audience. Moreover, the foundation published a beautifully produced book – A4 size, 236 page, fully illustrated, often in colour – containing researched papers by 14 experts in the field as well as a detailed catalogue of all the exhibits which appear in full colour. Both the symposium and the publication were intended to provide a permanent memento of the exhibition, substantially increase the existing knowledge about Caravaggio and to stimulate further discussion through the themes delivered in the papers. In fact, this is basically what exhibitions and symposia are for, besides offering the public, local and foreign, a unique experience for the spirit and the eyes.

The foundation collaborated with various stakeholders in this project, particularly with the Department of the History of Art at the University of Malta. It was a very fruitful experience for both sides. However, the foundation, both in its publications and during the symposium, acknowledged and recorded the substantial contributions of all collaborators without whose support such a major project would not have been implemented.

It is interesting for The Malta Independent on Sunday to know that some exhibits came from the National Museum of Fine Arts, which is administered by Heritage Malta with whom, the article suggests, the foundation had some battle.

The foundation wishes Heritage Malta all the success in whatever it does to promote, preserve and conserve Malta’s cultural heritage, particularly in the current exhibition. May both the Maltese and the tourists visiting our islands thoroughly enjoy both exhibitions.

The foundation will continue with its mission of promoting Malta’s cultural heritage, with particular reference to the sacred and religious heritage as befits its specific mission.

Paul A. Attard

President

Saint John’s Co-Cathedral Foundation