Culture Minister Owen Bonnici has officially inaugurated six more pavilions that are part of the maltabiennale.art 2024, representing Spain, Italy, Austria, Poland, China, and the Lugisland of Art Foundation Pavilion (Omenaart Foundation) throughout the Malta Biennale 2024.
Bonnici said that the Malta Biennale 2024 offers an important platform for both Maltese and international artists and curators to express themselves with different perspectives.
Through exhibitions, installations, and discussions, the Biennale showcases the richness of global art and encourages better dialogue between artists and diverse communities, aiming for better societies, Bonnici said.
"These events symbolize a celebration of cultural unity and exploration, promoting dialogue through artistic expression," Bonnici said, adding that art and culture offer powerful opportunities to convey messages.
During the pavilions' inauguration, the President of maltabiennale.art and Chairperson of Heritage Malta Mario Cutajar, with several agency officials, were present.
Also present at the inauguration of the Poland Pavilion was the Deputy Minister for Culture of Poland Marta Cienkowska, who also held a formal meeting with Bonnici, during which they discussed common interests.
Details on the six pavilions are as follows:
Spain - "No man is an island", located at Villa Portelli in Kalkara, delves into the concept of identity in pluralistic dimensions, emphasizing cultural encounters and exchanges as fundamental aspects. Curated by Angel Moya Garcia, the pavilion offers an experience that challenges thought, inviting visitors to reflect on art and society through the artistic work of Avelino Sala.
Poland - The Polish pavilion at Villa Portelli offers an immersive experience curated by Krzysztof Stanisławski. Artists Ryszard Grzyb, Zdzisław Nitka, Krzysztof Skarbek, Zbigniew Maciej Dowgiałło, and Piotr Dumała showcase contemporary Polish art while reflecting on historical archives. Through reinterpretations of biblical narratives and the exploration of artistic techniques, the pavilion provides a dynamic representation of Polish culture and heritage.
Austria - The Austrian pavilion curated by Carl Aigner at Fort St Elmo in Valletta offers a transformative experience. "Humanity's Spectrum" features terracotta figures representing various aspects of human existence, while "Scapegoating through time" explores historical victimization. Christian Gmeiner's artistic work serves as a center, symbolizing hope and empathy.
Italy - Eugenio Tibaldi's installation, "Informal Inclusion", challenges conventional narratives by emphasizing open spaces and untold stories at Villa Portelli in Kalkara. Curated by Francesca Guerisoli and Nicolas Martino, the exhibition sheds light on the complexities of inclusion and colonial ties while encouraging visitors to reconsider historical perspectives and engage with contemporary issues.
China - Curated by YAN Weixin, the exhibition at Fort St Elmo explores the intersection of words and portraits, inviting visitors to rediscover lost memories and create shared cultural experiences. Artists like YAN Shanchun contribute to this exploration by intertwining history, spirituality, and artistic expression.
Open stands at the Lugisland of Art, Omenaart Foundation under the title "Space & time" are curated by the renowned Slovak designer Boris Kudlička. This exhibition features works by established Maltese and Polish artists, including site-specific installations with historical references, alongside a careful selection of works from important collections and artists.
For more information, visit: https://maltabiennale.art.