Original Malta a local NGO established less than a year ago was set up by Lisa Grech founder of Malta Artisan Markets to further assist in promoting and raising the profile of Maltese Islands based contemporary artisans to a worldwide audience. Assisted by the Malta Enterprise Network Support Scheme, www.originalmalta.com showcases the best of Maltese contemporary craft, art, design and artisan food produce.
The official launch of the NGO and www.originalmalta.com took place at the Casino Maltese in Valletta on 6 November. Economy, Investment and Small Business Minister Chris Cardona and Malta Enterprise CEO Marika Tonna attended the launch.
Original Malta President Lisa Grech said of the site: "My vision in developing the concept for www.originalmalta.com is to offer a high quality website showcasing our members work and the individual artisan to our customer. The site's photography was especially commissioned for the website by photographer Mike Caffrey and together with NIU, one of Malta's most reputable website developers, we have created a visually stunning site which is also incredibly functional".
The website is partly funded by the Malta Enterprise Network Support Scheme. Lisa Grech on the evening thanked the organisation for its support of the artisans work and said "many artisans find that they often work in isolation, we are grateful that Malta Enterprise have realised the potential of local artisans, the NGO and website to allow for them to be able to network, share ideas and sell under one umbrella E-commerce site".
Dr Chris Cardona said of the initiative: "This is a chance to celebrate wonderful homemade products and shout about them to people far and wide. This organisation and this website are not just platforms for showcasing and selling. You also enable an exchange of ideas and expertise. You are a community working together, and it is good to see.
"This website is an obvious development for Malta Artisan Markets and comes less than a year after the project was launched. I am pleased that Malta Enterprise has been there to work with you and to support you."
Further developments in the pipeline for the site is for it to be translated into a further 4 languages opening it up to a larger clientele as well as to send out newsletters with news on artisans and exhibitions and upcoming fairs.
Original Malta presently has 12 founder members including artisans Stephanie Borg, Stephen Cordina, Gaetano Saliba, Andrew Vella Montague, Candice Fava, Fransina Grima, Caroline S. Lawrence, Sue Mifsud, Ray Sciberras, Judith Thomas, Rosita Gasiunaite and Antoine Vella. Arts and crafts produced by the members include art, filigree, contemporary jewellery, egg art, cosmetics, fashion, candles, ceramics, silk painting, weaving and local food products.
Membership offers artisans support and umbrella marketing, networking, mentoring enabling the exchange of ideas and expertise, marketing opportunities and a platform to showcase and sell work through the site.