The creative process is the core of artistic expression and forms how artists conceptualise, develop and create their work. In Malta, the artistic landscape is diverse. It includes three different categories of artists: those who have completed formal training in art academies or institutions, self-taught and outsider artists, who refine their art through personal exploration, and those who, despite lacking formal training, engage in artistic practice. These categories further intersect with various artistic practices, from Sunday artists who create their work during their free time, to established multimedia artists working with video and installation, abstract artists who prioritise form, colour and emotion over-representation and traditional painters specialising in landscapes, portraits, nudes and still life compositions.

Mischievious Spirits in the Temple by visual artist Nadine Micallef-Grimaud, 2023, mixed-media.

Understanding the meaning of the creative process in these diverse art groups provides valuable insight into how art develops in Malta. While formal education provides technical expertise and historical knowledge, self-taught and untrained artists often rely on instinct, experimentation and live experience. As George Hagman (2010:29) states: "Successful art involves the artist's creation of an opportunity for self-object experience." This concept suggests that through their work artists externalise and reflect on aspects of their inner world and make it easier to connect with themselves and their audience.

Abraxas lingers at the Divide by visual artist Damian Ebejer,  2018, acrylics on canvas.

Here I will explore the role of creativity in the formation of artistic identity and production in Malta and emphasise how the process of creating art, regardless of the background or medium, is responsible for artistic expression. We will also explore how the local art market affects artistic production and various artistic approaches that define the Maltese creative environment. Through the analysis of these characteristics and theoretical creativity foundations, this discussion will highlight the universal and transformative nature of the creative process in the Maltese art scene.

Portrait of Gabriel by visual artist Audrey Mercieca, ,2023, oil on linen.

The proliferation of art exhibitions in Malta

Malta witnessed a significant increase in art exhibitions in many places around the islands. This phenomenon raises several questions: Why are there so many art exhibitions? Can everything be considered as art? Is this increase the result of the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on artistic expression and public involvement? One of the factors contributing to this proliferation is the growing recognition of art as a fundamental aspect of cultural identity and social dialogue. Gallery, cultural institutions and even non-traditional spaces such as cafes, small personal galleries and public buildings have accepted exhibitions to showcase both emerging and established artists. The accessibility of these platforms supports greater participation in art and supports the dynamic art community.

The question of whether everything that is mentioned can be classified as art is more complicated. Given that contemporary art continues to question traditional borders, significant forms of expression: including conceptual, digital and experimental works, have emerged. While some critics say that artistic value should be measured by skills and intentions, others believe that the definition of art is liquid and evolving. "Art, especially contemporary art, is constantly showing us objects that we have never experienced or have never seen before," (Gregory Minissale, 2013: 30), while traditional landscape and figurative art show us and make sense of what has already been set. In addition, the Covid-19 pandemic played a transformational role in this artistic revival. During the lockdown, many artists found themselves with more time for meditation and creation, which led to an outpouring of work as soon as restrictions were limited. An increased number of exhibitions can reflect the collective need for artistic and cultural re-connection after a long-term of isolation. So how do we explore these factors, which intersect and shape the contemporary Maltese art scene, about the opportunities and challenges that result from such a pulsating exhibition culture?

Sunday artists

A significant part of Maltese artists falls into the category of Sunday artists - individuals who create art primarily as a passion than a profession. For these artists, the act of creation is deeply personal, powered by the basic need for self-expression. While some engage in artistic practice as a means of relaxation or personal fulfilment, others seek to share their work with a wider audience, often to show and sell their pieces at local exhibitions and online platforms. For example, Thomas S. Buechner, in his famous book, How I Paint: Secrets of a Sunday Painter, (2000), shares his journey and techniques, embracing the term "Sunday painter" to describe his approach to art as a passionate pursuit alongside his professional career. Today his works are found in The Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Smithsonian Institution's National Museum of American Art.

Sunday artists contribute to the cultural sphere of Malta by making their art accessible to the general public. Their work often reflects well-known topics, such as the Maltese landscape, the sea, the life of the village and the religious iconography, resonating with the local audience who appreciate the aesthetic and nostalgic value of these pieces. Many of these artists maintain full-time employment outside the art world and devote their free time to their creative pursuits. Sunday artists play a crucial role in maintaining the Maltese artistic tradition by keeping it diverse and community-oriented.

On the other hand, in contrast, outsider artists work outside the conventional art world but produce highly individualistic and unconventional works that challenge traditional notions of artistic practice. The difference between professional and Sunday artists is not always clear. Some artists, self-taught or part-time, eventually switch to full-time practitioners, while others continue to improve their art without looking for formal recognition.

Multimedia artists

Multimedia artists in Malta are often subject to formal academic training which equips them with technical skills and theoretical knowledge needed to explore contemporary artistic practices. Many of these artists experiment with digital media, video, sound and art installation and push the boundaries of traditional artistic expression. Some are lucky to receive funds from local art institutions, grants and cultural programmes that provide financial support for ambitious projects that could otherwise be difficult to implement.

In recent years, installation art and video art have gained importance in the artistic environment of Malta with institutions such as Spazju Kreattiv, Valletta Contemporary, which is an independent exhibition space established by artist Norbert Attard in 2018 and other recognised galleries providing these experimental forms. These platforms allow artists to cooperate with an audience absorbing and provoking ways that often relate to social, political and cultural themes. Among these, abstract artists also find a space for experimentation, blending multimedia techniques with non-representational aesthetics to explore themes of perception, movement and emotion. The adoption of multimedia art continues to develop contemporary art, reflecting global trends while maintaining a clear local identity.

One should also take into account that in the last decades, participation in the Venice Biennale has included only a selected group of artists who had the opportunity to show their work at this international prestigious art fair. This raises the question: What criteria were used to choose these artists, and why were many others left out? Through these participations, Malta continues to assert its presence in the global art community, offering unique perspectives that intertwine its rich cultural heritage with contemporary artistic exploration.

Imnarja by outsider artist Zepp Cassar,  2025, mixed-media on canvas.

Traditional artists

Traditional artists in Malta play an important role in preserving and continuing the country's artistic heritage. Many of these artists focus on painting specialising in genres such as landscapes, portraits, life paintings and themes related to the country. While some have undergone formal academic training, others have improved their skills over the years of practice and mentoring. Their works often reflect themes deeply rooted in Maltese culture, history, and natural beauty, making their art both a visual and historical documentation of the island's evolving identity.

Traditional painting remains highly evaluated among collectors and artistic ideas, with many local galleries and exhibitions that present these works. While some artists strictly follow classic techniques, others create their paintings with modern influences and mix realism with contemporary stylistic elements. The demand for traditional art continues to flourish, especially among those who appreciate the originality, technical skill and emotional depth that these works mediate.

Despite the rise of contemporary and multimedia art forms, traditional painters maintain a strong presence on the Maltese art scene. Their contributions ensure that the basic artistic principles are not lost and that future generations remain associated with the rich artistic legacy of the island.

The interplay between various artistic approaches in Malta emphasises the richness and complexity of its creative landscape. From Sunday artists to multimedia practising and traditional painters, each group contributes to the evolving narrative of Malta's art. The creative process remains at the core of artistic identity and production, shaping the way artists engage with their art and their audience. By exploring the intersections of these artistic categories and the influence of local cultural dynamics, we gain a deeper understanding of how Maltese art continues to transform and evolve.

Professor Louis Laganà PhD (Lough) is an academic, curator and practising artist