I welcome you to the launching of the fifth edition of Art4MCCF in its present format of a curated exhibition in aid of the Malta Community Chest Fund.
Over the years, Art4MCCF has brought together artistic expression and solidarity, providing artists with a space through which their creativity can also contribute directly to the work of the Malta Community Chest Fund and, ultimately, be of support for those who seek its assistance.
This year, around forty Maltese and international artists have come together for an exhibition centred on the theme, The (In)Visible Self.
This invites us to consider the relationship between what is visible and what is unseen; between what we choose to reveal about ourselves and the thoughts, experiences and emotions that remain buried deep beneath the surface – what of us is visible to others and the world around us, and the hidden musings of our conscious and unconscious hearts and minds.
I hearty welcome the inclusion in this exhibition, of works by residents of the Corradino Correctional Facility.
Earlier this year, at the opening of Malta Biennale 2026, I had occasion to highlight the participation of residents from the Correctional Facility as a concrete example of how art can help challenge stigma and marginalisation.
I therefore embrace this spirit of inclusion which is also present here today.
The participation of residents of the Correctional Facility alongside Maltese and international artists reminds us that creativity should not be restricted by social barriers, by the labels which stem from hard prejudice.
Indeed, against the backdrop of The (In)Visible Self, their participation acquires particular significance.
Behind what is immediately visible, human beings are all unique, a moulding of thoughts, abilities and aspirations and, above all, bearing the scars of life’s vicissitudes.
Art gives the individual the opportunity to communicate his/her self with others – but I believe that for this to be achieved, spaces have to be created.
Art should never be the privilege of the few, culture must be made accessible to all. It is part of our common heritage and an instrument through which people can express themselves, encounter different realities and understand one another better.
Art4MCCF adds yet another important dimension to this.
The works surrounding us are not only expressions of creativity. Through this initiative, art becomes an expression of solidarity.
The Malta Community Chest Fund assists individuals and families who find themselves facing difficult circumstances. The demands placed upon the Fund are huge, and initiatives such as Art4MCCF are important – and not only because they raise funds, but also because they bring people together, making the conscious of social responsibilities.
I wish to express my sincere appreciation to Mr Lawrence Pavia and all those involved in organising and curating this edition of Art4MCCF.
My gratitude goes especially to all the participating artists, Maltese and international, who have shared their talent and creativity by participating in this initiative.
I am indeed also pleased to see that this year’s exhibition includes some paintings of prominent artists who unfortunately are no longer with us, but who have, in their own different ways, left a marked influence on artistic development in Malta.
Although these works are not for sale, they contribute to the theme of self-portraiture, chosen by the team of art4mccf, and show how these renowned local artists experienced this genre of paintings.
Finally, I encourage all those who visit this exhibition not merely to look at the works before them, but to reflect on them.
May it also remind us that a truly inclusive society is one which looks beyond what is immediately visible, recognises the dignity and potential of every individual, and ensures that no voice is too distant to be heard.
Thank you.