The works in this ongoing exhibition by Clint Calleja, draw parallels between the ancient story of the Tower of Babel and the complexities of our modern digital age.

The exhibition, curated by Melanie Erixon, opened on 11th October and is on until 3rd November at Il-Kamra ta’ Fuq. 

In the biblical narrative found in the Book of Genesis, humanity, united by a common language, attempts to build a tower that reaches the heavens—a symbol of collective ambition. However, their endeavour collapses when communication breaks down, leading to division and disarray.

In today’s world, we are united by a new common language: binary code, the foundation of our digital existence. From everyday life to global politics and conflicts, technology has become both a connector and a disruptor. This exhibition raises the question: could the digital “tower” we are building, like its ancient counterpart, crumble under the weight of its own complexity?

As the digital landscape shapes power dynamics, personal connections, and even warfare through hacking and cyber conflict, the fragility of this structure becomes more evident.

The sculptures themselves, constructed from porcelain and copper, embody the tension between antiquity and modernity. Porcelain, symbolising the earth from which the biblical tower was built, represents our deep-rooted connection to the physical world, while copper, essential to modern digital communication, highlights the flow of information in the virtual age.

Included onto the surface of these towers are binary codes—translations of the biblical text into the language of machines. These inscriptions blur the lines between the ancient and the modern, reflecting the way old narratives are carried forward in new, digital forms.

Clint Calleja (born 1983) is a versatile contemporary artist whose work spans across various mediums, including painting, sculpture, printing, and installation. 

Calleja’s artwork is influenced by his personal experiences and the environment he inhabits. His art often explores themes of identity, memory, and cultural heritage, while also reflecting on contemporary society and its issues.

His pieces are characterised by their unique and original perspective, often challenging the viewer to engage with their own perceptions and emotions.

Will you be visiting this exhibition?