I feel honoured to be here tonight, surrounded by the remarkable works of artists who have graciously gifted their work to help a worthy cause – the Malta Community Chest Fund, the national charity which seeks to help and support as needed, members of the public who are facing difficult times and situations.
The enthusiastic committee, with new members now on board, is this evening presenting us with the latest initiative of Art4MCCF.
The natural environment, presented as landscapes, seascapes, and imaginary e-scapes, is the theme that 43 artists have engaged with. Participating artists range from highly established figures to those exhibiting for the first time. Most artists hail from the Maltese Islands, but we also have artists from France, China, and India. Some were invited to participate, while others were selected through an open call.
The selected artists utilize a diverse range of media, such as oils, acrylics, charcoal, ink, photography, digital methods, watercolour, spray paint, collage, pastels, soil, pyrography, pencil, ceramics, and mixed media. This varied assortment of works of art in diverse materials creates an exhibition that features numerous styles and interpretations.
Regardless of the artist’s origin or location, Malta’s landscape takes centre stage, especially in the more realistic works. Some works are the outcome of reflections and observations. Others are deep reflections on what our landscape stands for and the deep meanings that it enshrines for our collective well-being. Indeed, the environment of our country, both its cultural and natural landscape, is invaluable and this curated choice of works bears witness to this.
This weave of landscapes, both natural and cultural, symbolic and abstract, goes beyond the noble cause to which it has responded.
Anyone who acquires one of these works of art—and we hope that all will find a home in the coming days—not only supports the Malta Community Chest Fund Foundation in its commitment to help those in need of assistance; whoever acquires one of these works of art, shall possess not only a work of aesthetic value, but also a thoughtful reflection on our surroundings; the environment, which must be cherished and safeguarded with dedication and commitment.
I thank the committee under the chairmanship of Mr Lawrence Pavia, and the exhibition curator, Ms Melanie Erixon, whose commitment and professionalism are here for us all to see and appreciate.
I thank the artists whose works are showcased here today. Thank you for your generosity and willingness to come forward. My thanks also go to all those who will come forward to acquire these artworks. I thank them not only for their support of the Malta Community Chest Fund Foundation but also for supporting our creative community by acquiring their artistic output.
