Kenneth Zammit Tabona is a prominent Maltese artist known for his expressive watercolours that capture the essence of Mediterranean culture with finesse and vibrancy.

For Zammit Tabona, his watercolour palette leans towards delicate, translucent hues that capture the warmth and intimacy of Maltese interiors, but which can be much more intense such as the bright reds adding diversity to each composition.

This is done to accentuate details such as traditional Maltese tiles, ornate furniture, and still life elements. Kenneth’s style balances intricate details with a looser approach that allows light and shadow to play across the spaces, imbuing them with an inviting atmosphere of timeless beauty. His work often showcases his passion for Maltese heritage, seen in his detailed renderings of local architecture, interiors, and landscapes that embody a quintessential charm.

As both an artist and cultural advocate, Zammit Tabona has significantly contributed to Malta’s artistic landscape, using his craft to celebrate Maltese traditions.

His works in Home is where the heart is bring a graceful sensitivity to Maltese interiors,  reflecting his lifelong dedication to portraying the warmth of local customs and spaces.

Equally vibrant are the paintings by another talented Maltese artist Mariam De Giorgio who excels in acrylic painting and illustration, bringing her distinctive style to life with a bold use of colour and intricate detailing.

De Giorgio’s palette brings the colours of the Maltese home to life with striking clarity. Her painting style is more contemporary, with bold brushstrokes laden with paint. She captures the heart of each scene through expressive colour contrasts and dynamic lines, creating a sense of movement and energy.

Her works exude a lively warmth, once again reinterpreting traditional Maltese interiors with a modern perspective, inviting viewers to celebrate familiar spaces in a fresh and spirited light.

Her art often explores themes close to Maltese identity, depicting scenes filled with traditional décor, familiar household elements, and lively gatherings. De Giorgio’s work for Home is where the heart is radiates the warmth and intimacy of Maltese interiors, blending nostalgic motifs with a fresh, contemporary approach.

Her paintings not only showcase her technical skill but also evoke a sense of belonging and tradition, and which are extremely warm.

Cherished banquet tables and lively gatherings feature in Mariam De Giorgio’s acrylics with her characteristic boldness that gives life to cosy courtyards, joyful scenes of children, and the warmth of family life around the dinner table.

Seasonal cheer will also be woven into the exhibition, with holiday-themed pieces evoking a timeless Christmas spirit in Malta.

De Giorgio’s paintings are all based on her recent experiences with her friends and loved ones and revolve around her close-knit family with paintings portraying a jovial yet intimate Christmas Eve dinner. On the other hand, Zammit Tabona’s paintings are largely of imaginative settings, albeit being of places and people that he has come across and been inspired by.

From traditional decorations to candle-lit feasts, these works offer a uniquely Maltese take on holiday festivities, making this exhibition one that will adequately spread Christmas cheer for everyone.

Home is where the heart is at The Phoenicia Malta will run through December 2024 and is curated by Prof Charlene Vella.

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