Heritage Malta’s senior Curator for Arts and Palaces, Sandro Debono, will be delivering a public lecture on the Maltese renowned sculptor Mariano Girada (1766-1823), and the artistic links between Malta and Valencia during the 18th and 19th century.

The lecture, which forms part of Heritage Malta’s series of lectures will be held on Tuesday, 1 April 2008 at Heritage Malta’s Head Office in Merchants Street, Valletta at 6.30pm. Admission is free of charge and the lecture will be delivered in English.

Mariano Girada is best known for his religious sculpture work, and was until recently only thought to have trained in Valencia. Mr Debono will provide new insight on the sculptor’s stay in Valencia and his artistic formation in the city.

The artist will be discussed within the context of the impact his works had on the following generation of sculptors, particularly those producing religious works.

Sandro Debono holds a Masters in History of Art from the University of Malta, and specialises in Spanish and Iberian art.

He is the author of a number of academic contributions in publications and scientific journals on the subject.