A Decade of Growth in the Arts

Since its establishment, KMA has invested over €28 million into Malta’s creative sector, aiming to strengthen the industry and make it more professional and economically viable.

Minister for the Arts Owen Bonnici highlighted key initiatives that have supported local artists over the years, including:

• A 7.5% tax rate for self-employed creative practitioners
• A 150% tax reduction for cultural donations
• The Culture Pass initiative, making the arts more accessible to young people

With a fresh €7 million injection for 2025 funding schemes, the Council is looking to further boost sustainable growth in the arts.

A Modern Identity for an Evolving Sector

KMA’s Chief Operating Officer Luke Dalli explained that the Council’s renewal reflects Malta’s evolving cultural and creative landscape, ensuring its identity aligns with modern values and international trends.

“We want to make the arts a central pillar of Malta’s future while making sure our cultural scene remains modern, sustainable, and globally relevant.”

New Directorate to Boost Maltese Artists Internationally

The Directorate for International Cultural Relations has also been launched to help Maltese artists gain more international exposure.

Executive Head Annabelle Stivala explained that the initiative will provide funding and opportunities for artists to perform and exhibit their work abroad.

Following Malta’s participation in the Venice Biennale and London Design Biennale, the Council has now secured a spot at the prestigious Gwangju Biennale in South Korea, one of Asia’s top contemporary art events.

A key initiative for 2025 will be exhibiting Malta’s Venice and London Biennale works locally, ensuring these internationally acclaimed pieces reach Maltese audiences.

What’s Next?

Alongside this, KMA is rolling out:

• 23 funding schemes & 35 calls supporting education, media, artistic heritage, entrepreneurship, health & well-being
• 5 new funding schemes
• Stronger artist protections through the Artist Status Charter

For more details, check out the Malta Arts Council’s new website at artscouncil.mt.

What do you think about this investment in the arts?