Those who are involved in the Maltese feasts and are familiar with local feast decorations have surely heard of local artist Salvu Bugeja. His work is well-known and is displayed in several feasts in Malta. All his admirers were saddened by his loss on Saturday 28 August 2010, aged 90.

His last interview was given to an annual publication published by the Ghaqda Armar San Sebastjan, in which organisation he was really respected and loved. In fact, a member of our committee was also present for a surprise party organised to celebrate his 90th birthday.

During his last interview, Salvu shared his thoughts about his initial desire to become a priest, about how he found himself working in the dockyard, and how he started studying arts and design-making under the tutorship of Ignazio Cefai and Edward and Robert Caruana Dingli. Salvu’s main priority was always his family, and he states how he needed to try his luck in another sector of arts: the musical scene. Playing the saxophone, he came in contact with several popular jazz bands including those of Vinny Valente, Oscar Lucas and Jimmy Dowling.

However, one may say that the art of sculpture and design-making was his favourite, as reflected by his work and commitment at 90 years of age. He stated that “this sort of art gives me strength and courage to see life in a more positive and optimistic way”. I will never forget his presence during an exhibition which we held, celebrating the 25th anniversary of our organisation, especially his satisfaction at seeing some of his own work exhibited!

On behalf of the Ghaqda Armar San Sebastjan, I offer my deepest condolences to his family. His work in the aforementioned committee will always serve as a beloved memory of a friend and a humble talented artist, an artist who can serve as a model to future young artists in our country.

A complete version of Salvu Bugeja’s last interview, dated May 2010, can be found online on www.armarsansebastjan.org.

Marlon Barbara

Secretary

Ghaqda Armar San Sebastjan

Hal Qormi