The Palm Court Lounge at The Phoenicia Malta is currently hosting Taqtir is-Skiet, a new exhibition by established Maltese artist Antonio Mifsud. Curated by Prof. Charlene Vella, this latest body of work presents 24 evocative paintings - some abstract, others subtly representational, some of which also include an element of three-dimensionality - each inspired by a poem by Maltese poet Achille Mizzi (b. 1939).
Mizzi emerged as a pivotal figure in the 1960s, co-founding the Moviment Qawmien Letterarju, which sought to revitalise Maltese literature post-Independence. Throughout his career, Mizzi has published several acclaimed poetry collections, including Il-Għar tal-Enimmi (1967), Il-Kantiku tad-Demm (1980), Taqtir is-Skiet (1987), Eklissi Perpetwi (2007) and Ġenesi (2017).
Known primarily for his sculptural and sacred art, Mifsud turns to the medium of painting to explore silence, introspection and emotion through form, colour and verse. This exhibition marks a sensitive and poetic turn in the artist's oeuvre, bringing together literature, visual art and the spiritual in a contemplative dialogue.
Adding a unique experiential dimension to the exhibition, a special collaborative performance will be held on Sunday, 18 May at 7pm at The Phoenicia Malta. This interdisciplinary evening will see the featured poems performed live by acclaimed jazz pianist Dominic Galea and vocalist Nadia Vella, offering visitors an immersive encounter where poetry is interpreted through music and painting.
Mifsud's (b. 1977) practice spans sacred, monumental and public art. Trained under Dr Ġorġ Mallia and Chev. Alfred Camilleri Cauchi, Mifsud has represented Malta internationally and produced works for ecclesiastical and civic institutions locally and abroad. His first solo exhibition, Anima, was held at the Inquisitor's Palace Vittoriosa in 2008. His recent projects include The Way of Beauty (2023) at the Archbishop's Palace in Valletta and monumental commissions for Kalkara and San Anton Gardens.
Taqtir is-Skiet remains open to the public until 1 June at The Phoenicia Malta's Palm Court Lounge.
