The Malta Society of Arts (MSA) has announced its exciting schedule of summer courses starting this July and is welcoming applications from the public. This year's programme introduces three brand new courses - Drawing and Lino Printing, Oil Painting and Theory and My First Story Book - each designed to inspire creativity, build skills and open up new artistic possibilities.

All courses will take place at the magnificent Palazzo de La Salle in Valletta, the historic seat of the MSA. Recently-renovated, the 16th-century building now boasts state-of-the-art classrooms that provide a comfortable and well-equipped learning environment.

Designed for students of all ages, the courses start from as young as four years old with Art for Kids and extend to 60+ with Art for Mature Students. Whether beginners, intermediates or advanced learners, participants will find a class suited to their skill level.

The visual arts courses include Art for Kids (4-10 years), Clay Modelling, Human Nude Figure, Preparation for O Level, Art for Leisure, Art for Mature Students and a Pencil and Charcoal Drawing course, alongside the newly-introduced Drawing and Lino Printing and Oil Painting and Theory courses.

For the first time ever, the MSA is offering a course titled My First Story Book - a creative writing and an illustration course led by a story writer and an artist. Aimed at children aged six to 10, the course will guide students through the process of developing their own story -covering plot, setting and characters - while also helping them create accompanying illustrations.

Established in 1852, the MSA is Malta's oldest arts institution, continuously championing local arts and crafts. The crafts section of this summer's programme includes courses in Lace Making, Dressmaking, Embroidery, Crochet, Knitting, Sewing for Beginners and Tailoring.

Budding writers can also enrol in the highly sought-after Creative Writing Course. First introduced two years ago, this course quickly became a favourite among students, thanks to its engaging mix of theory and hands-on practice.

The ever-popular Acting and Drama course will also return this summer for young performers aged 10 to 15. Combining fun acting exercises with an informal final performance, this staple course encourages creativity and storytelling in a supportive setting.

Music students of all levels can also apply for individual classes in violin, pianoforte and guitar - whether electric, acoustic or classical - ensuring a well-rounded musical education under the guidance of experienced instructors.

MSA president Arch. Adrian Mamo expressed his enthusiasm for the expanding programme: "Expanding the range of courses at the MSA is a key part of our mission to nurture arts education and fill gaps in the local education market. The newly-introduced Drawing and Lino Printing and Oil Painting and Theory courses are an exciting step in that direction, and we look forward to welcoming students who want to broaden their artistic horizons."

Applications are now open.

For more details and to secure a spot visit www.artsmalta.org/courses-summer. For more on the activities of the MSA one can also visit www.facebook.com/maltasocietyofarts