An exhibition of paintings by Giorgio Preca has been launched at Muża. Preca's works were brought over to Malta from Rome earlier this year, having been loaned to Heritage Malta by the artist's family. This exhibition epitomises Heritage Malta's efforts towards a visitor-centred experience in its sites and museums, with immersive and interactive features that bring the paintings to life.

Entitled Giorgio Preca (1909-1984) ta' Malta: An international artist with a modern spirit, the exhibition presents works from the family's collection, which have been exhibited internationally, as well as Preca's self-portrait which Heritage Malta acquired in 2019.

The paintings from the family's collection include works selected for the 29th edition of the Venice Biennale of 1958; works from The Inhabitants of the Moon series, which were exhibited twice in Rome in 1952 and at the Commonwealth Institute Art Gallery of London in 1966 and a set of still lifes and abstract paintings, which were exhibited both in Rome and London.

Preca was an outstanding Maltese artist, considered by many post-war artists as one of the finest local exponents of modern art, if not the best among them. He spent a good part of his life in Rome and attracted attention from international entities. Throughout his career he was ready to take risks and present his individual artistic language even if the public in Malta was many a time not ready for such innovation.

While living in Malta, his contemporaries looked up to him as a leading figure who pushed forward a new Modernist spirit. The drive for Modernism persisted during his sojourn in Italy, as confirmed by the long list of solo and collective exhibitions he took part in and the ensuing international reviews. He engaged with the Roman artistic scene, both as a foreigner living there as well as an international artist.

The exhibition, which will run until 27 February, includes an immersive experience with light projections. The opening hours are from Monday to Sunday between 10am and 4.30pm.