The anticipation surrounding the inaugural edition of maltabiennale.art, an international contemporary art festival, has reached new heights as the call for proposals draws to a close.

With an astounding response from artists worldwide, the festival’s debut promises to be a cultural milestone for Malta in 2024.

Hailing from 75 different countries, an impressive total of 2527 artists have submitted their contemporary art proposals, showcasing a global convergence of artistic vision and creativity.

The international call, which concluded last Friday at noon, marks a significant step towards the realization of a groundbreaking art event that will captivate audiences from March 11th to the end of May next year.

The festival will unfold across various historic sites managed by Heritage Malta, spanning both the Maltese islands of Malta and Gozo.

The forthcoming selection process will be a collaborative endeavor guided by an esteemed international curatorial team led by the Artistic Director, Sofia Baldi Pighi.

As the world awaits the unveiling of the chosen artworks, the selection process is set to culminate by October. Distinguished artists of international renown have participated in the call, setting a precedent for the calibre of works that will define this extraordinary cultural celebration.

The essence of maltabiennale.art is deeply intertwined with its chosen theme, “Baħar Abjad Imsaġar taż-Żebbuġ,” a concept resonating with the essence of the Mediterranean. The festival will explore this theme through the lens of art, delving into four distinct but interconnected artistic expressions.

In an impressive recognition of its significance, maltabiennale.art has garnered the patronage of UNESCO. This early endorsement not only underscores the festival’s global impact but also positions it as an exemplar for the synergy between world heritage sites and contemporary art. This synergy will come to life through the presentation of diverse artworks across various locations managed by Heritage Malta.

Mario Cutajar, the President of maltabiennale.art and Chairman of Heritage Malta, shared insights into the festival’s multifaceted nature. Beyond the showcase of individual artists and national pavilions, the festival is poised to host a range of parallel programs. These encompass educational initiatives catering to all age groups, engaging public events by cultural entities, hands-on workshops, enlightening academic discussions, and complementary programs endorsed by external organizations throughout the biennale’s duration.

Cutajar expressed enthusiasm regarding the robust response to the call for proposals, emphasizing the artist’s desire to convey their perspectives through their art. He highlighted Malta’s proud role in offering a platform like maltabiennale.art, which nurtures this creative dialogue.

Organized by Heritage Malta in collaboration with MUŻA, the Malta National Community Art Museum, and supported by Arts Council Malta, maltabiennale.art is a collaborative endeavor with the Ministries for Foreign and European Affairs and Trade, National Heritage, the Arts and Local Government, and Gozo.

Additional partners include Visit Malta, Malta Libraries, and the Valletta Cultural Agency. As the festival’s momentum builds, the world eagerly awaits the culmination of artistic excellence that maltabiennale.art promises to deliver in its debut edition.