The Maltese Association of the Sovereign Order of Malta are hosting the second edition of the Order of Malta national art exhibition at St John's Cavalier, Valletta, until 14 November.
Featuring works by 194 local artists, this event promises to be one of the largest collective art exhibitions ever organised in Malta, showcasing an extraordinary range of artistic disciplines including painting, watercolour, bronze and ceramic art, sculpture, photography, and more.
Comm. Dr Pascal Demajo, curator of the exhibition, chairman of the organising committee, and council member of the Maltese Association of the Order of Malta, described the exhibition's vision as "four-pronged".
"Our aims are clear. We wish to promote the arts in present-day Malta while also raising awareness and funds for the Maltese Association's philanthropic causes. Additionally, this is an opportunity to nurture a love of culture and the arts in our youth through educational school visits which must not be missed," explained Dr Demajo.
Beyond celebrating Malta's vibrant contemporary art scene, the exhibition also serves a charitable purpose, raising vital funds for the association's humanitarian initiatives. These include:
- The Annual Pilgrimage to Lourdes, which hosts around 340 participants;
- The purchase of two 16-seater, fully air-conditioned tail-lift vans for Dar tal-Providenza;
- Support for two residential shelters - the Blessed Gerard Residence for single migrant mothers and their children, and the Alberto Marvelli Residence for homeless youths; and
- And ongoing mentorship visits to foreign inmates in Maltese correctional facilities who lack family support.
Dr Demajo expressed gratitude to the participating artists, noting: "We are truly grateful to the 194 artists who have generously committed to donating all or part of the proceeds from the sale of their works to these causes."
As part of its educational outreach, the exhibition will also welcome school visits, giving students a chance to engage with artists, explore different artistic techniques, and appreciate the historic setting of St John's Cavalier - a cultural landmark in its own right.
r Demajo also extended thanks to APS Bank, the exhibition's main sponsor, for its "generous financial contribution", as well as to the members of the organising and advisory committees.
"Finally, I thank all those who visit the exhibition, and especially those who, through their acquisitions, help promote the arts in Malta while supporting the Order's charitable work," added Dr Demajo.
The opening hours are Monday to Saturday: 10am to 6pm and Sunday: 10am to 1pm
