7 Young Maltese Artists Whose Work We Are Loving Right Now
These seven young artists are all at different stages of their career, but we’re pretty sure this is just the tip of the iceberg for every one of them. Their work forms part of the definition of the Maltese art scene right now, so they deserve all the attention they can get.
Take a look at these awesome works by local artists.
1. George Eynaud
Eynaud might be young, but he’s been creating amazing art for a few years now. He studied at the Camberwell College of Art (UAL) in London in 2011, and then set up shop as an artist after that. His early work is more figurative, but he’s now creating pieces that are much more focused on texture and surface – and we are loving his new stuff. He’s got an exhibition coming up later on this year at the Lily Agius Gallery – so keep your eyes peeled for that.
2. Matthew Attard
Matthew Attard is just 30 years old and already has a super accomplished career as an art historian. But aside from working with some of the most prestigious art institutions, he has exhibited his own works in Venice, London, Beijing and Italy. His recent 3D wire-drawings are dynamic, sinuous and compelling – we’re so glad they’ve been incorporated into the MUŻA collection.
3. Sebastian Tanti Burlo’
The work of artist and political cartoonist Sebastian Tanti Burlò translates current affairs into artwork, bringing a new experience and understanding to Maltese audiences. He recently exhibited a selection of cartoons in Brussels in a show titled, iwEU Observed, showing subjects and issues, debated during Forum Valletta held at the Maltese Parliament. His works are laden with satire, but also have a free-handed energy that keeps them accessible and totally un-laboured. Burlò believes that “artistic expression can help shine a light on truth in politics by giving a perspective through the lens of society”. And we can’t really argue with that.
4. Ġulja Holland
Holland graduated from Leeds College of Art with a BA (Hons) Fine Art and makes paintings and mixed media artwork. Her style is varied and has in the past had a focus on aspects of identity and “self referential nuances”. Her latest exhibition, which is showing at the end of this month at the Lily Agius Gallery, is more abstract. Holland’s colours have always been very strong, but we’re really enjoying a newfound sense of movement in her latest pieces.
5. Mark Muscat
If we’re going to discuss colour, then we’ve got to talk about this talented watercolorist. Muscat is an architect by profession, but has trained artistically under some renowned Maltese artists (Charlot Cassar, Harry Alden, Winston Hassall, Jessica DeBattista and Anton Grech). There aren’t many young artists around using watercolours – and there’s a reason for it. They’re extremely hard to get right. Muscat definitely has our kudos on this front.
6. Robert Zahra
After teaching in state schools for eighteen years, Zahra has recently been appointed Head at the Malta School of Art. His talent as an art educator works in tandem with his art. Zahra’s works focuses on urban qualities and the human figure. He’s had a number of solo shows in both Malta and Italy, and now he’s taking his work all the way to New Delhi for a new show called Moving Lands. We have no doubt his steely palette and tactile layering will be a great success there.
7. Kelsey May Connor
Connor is the youngest of this talented bunch. She’s a 23-year old realist and surrealist artist, currently in her final year in the B.A. (Hons) Fine Arts course at the Malta Institute of Fine Arts, MCAST. Her drawings for Kelma Kuljum – a local initiative which explains language through hand drawn sketches – are quirky and fun. We’re impressed by her solid draughtsmanship and strong storytelling skills. We can’t wait to watch her style develop.
