In line with its commitment to support local art and artists, Valletta Fund Management Limited (“VFM”) has recently sponsored the “Silver Palette” Arts competition and exhibition, mainly aimed at art students and amateurs. The Exhibition which will be held at the Palazzo de La Salle in Valletta has attracted a total of 61 artists presenting 76 works of art to include 61 paintings and 15 pieces of sculptures.

Speaking on the inauguration of the bi-annual Silver Palette Competition and Exhibition 2012, Mark Vella, Head VFM stated the exhibition varies in quality and content but represents a new art concept – art as an educational tool, as therapy, as hobby and a means to develop personality and character. Art is no longer exclusive and the domain of masters and professionals but has become all embracing and inclusive, a platform for amateurs too.

Mr Vella also presented the sculpture award to Mr Censu Fenech, who was unanimously awarded first prize in the sculpture section. His work in abstract shapes bursts with powerful energy and force. ‘Blue Grotto Beauty’ by Godfrey Xuereb, a prosaic piece chosen perhaps for its technical qualities rather than invention and a terracotta piece ‘Adam & Eve’ by Anthony Lucian Cauchi were both awarded an honorable mention.

Jesmond Dalmas won the painting section by ‘Pepp’ in soft pastels a realistic portrait of a striking female beauty. ‘Our Heritage’ by David Camilleri Kleine in impasto and ceramics and ‘Untitled’ an abstract by Jennings Falzon were awarded an honorable mention. Aesthetically, both works are valid but hardly deserve the term impressive.

Presenting the sponsorship, Mark Vella concluded that “Valletta Fund Management Limited’s support in this art competition and exhibition is in line with the Company’s aim to contribute, encourage and stimulate Maltese artists and we are therefore pleased to support these young artisits”.

Mr E V Borg, curator of Silver Palette, thanked Valletta Fund Management Limited and said “On behalf of the local artists I am grateful to Valletta Fund Management Limited for their support”. He concluded that “Art is the ability to create and recreate either by improving on tradition or by an explorative search for the unknown”.