As part of Din l-Art Helwa’s monthly series of public lectures, on Thursday 8 January at 6pm Dr Conrad Thake will be giving a talk on the legacy of the Modern Movement in 20th century Maltese architecture. The lecture will take place at Din l-Art Helwa, 133 Melita Street, Valletta.

The lecture will argue the case that there is need for a wider appreciation of this neglected period in local architectural history and the need to preserve the finest examples for future generations. The International Style in Malta, although short-lived, did provide a few excellent examples of Modernist designs. In the 1950s and 60s, some of the most innovative architectural experiments took place mainly in the construction of government schools and accommodation for a flourishing tourism industry. However, in line with the continental trend, several fine examples have been demolished or remodelled beyond recognition.

From 24 January to 27 February, the Kamra tal-Periti and Din l-Art Helwa are organising a photographic exhibition, Modernist Malta: the Architectural Legacy, at St James Cavalier Centre for Creativity, featuring images taken by five professional photographers – Patrick Fenech, Matthew Mirabelli, Sergio Muscat, Alexandra Pace and Darrin Zammit Lupi.

Dr Thake is an architect, urban planner and architectural historian. He co-authored with the late Dr Quentin Hughes, the two volumes Malta – the Baroque Island and Malta –War & Peace: an Architectural Chronicle 1800-2000. Dr Thake lectures on subjects relating to architectural and urban history within the History of Art unit, at the University of Malta. He also currently serves as a member of the Planning Appeals Board and of the core group within the Cottonera/Mdina/Valletta Rehabilitation Committees.