Over the years Ben Maile (b.1922) has exhibited at many galleries throughout the world placing a large number of reputable locations under his belt such as London’s Mansion House, Speaker’s House within the Parliament Buildings, Selfridges, Upper Grosvenor Gallery, Harrods, The Medici Gallery, The Dorchester Hotel, and The Balmoral Galleries on the other side of the world in Australia.

Ben’s first solo exhibition was held in London in 1959, to be then followed by a repeated annual appearance in the Top Ten Artists of the Year poll held by the Fine Art Trade Guild during the 1960. His “collectable” reputation started to soar with his work being acquired by H. M. Queen Elizabeth II and other members of the British Royal family. His paintings are also in many other significant collections including those of international corporations in both commerce and industry, presidents, prime ministers, bankers, and other keen collectors such as Spike Milligan.

One of the many highlights of Ben’s career was his involvement with the reclamation of the old Tudor warship that sank in 1545, The Mary Rose, where his paintings of the ship and its recovery brought him into close working contact with H.R.H. Prince Charles having acquired the original painting The Mary Rose 1545 for his own collection.

His first exhibition in Malta takes place next month at Le Meridien St Julians Hotel & Spa. Ben Maile’s latest work, mainly depicting Maltese scenes, can be viewed at the lobby from 3 May until 31 May. For more details call 9929 2488.

How old are you? Star sign and date of birth?

Chasing Methuselah. Sagittarius. 25 November 1922.

What would you like to be doing in 10 years’ time?

Still living!

What is your idea of perfect happiness?

Sailing a boat out of sight of land on a good day.

What is your favourite occupation?

Sailing – if I am not painting.

Significant other?

Carrie, my wife.

What is your greatest fear?

To be trapped by fire.

What is it that you most value in your friends?

Trust, respect and laughter.

How would you like to die?

Quickly.

What is your greatest extravagance?

Life – living it to the full.

What is your greatest regret?

Not going to Oxford when I had the chance.

What is your most treasured possession?

The memory of many good friends and loved ones.

Which talent would you most like to have apart from the ones you already have?

To play the piano.

What do you regard as the lowest depth of misery?

Extreme animal suffering due to inhumanity of humans.

Where would you like to live?

I live in two countries now, which suits me well – Turkey and Ireland.

What is your most marked characteristic?

Impetuosity.

Who are your heroes/heroines in real life?

R.N.L.I. Lifeboat men and Lady Margaret Thatcher.

What is it that you most

dislike?

Flattery.

What is your motto?

There is always tomorrow.