President George Vella inaugurated a visual art exhibition in aid of The Malta Community Chest Fund at the Grand Master’s Palace, Valletta, featuring a variety of artworks from 40 artists inspired by his presidency’s raison d’être.
The exhibition is organised by art4mccf, a dedicated committee within The Malta Community Chest Fund, committed to promoting Malta’s visual arts sector and organising cultural fundraising activities to support the MCCF.
Since this is the last art exhibition under the Presidency of President George Vella, art4mccf thought it would be fitting to have it related to the Presidency’s main recurring theme and consciously titled it ‘Dokra’, an old Maltese noun which stands for safeguarding, vigilance, and protection.
“Upon receiving the briefing regarding the selected theme, influenced by the Presidency’s role as the guardian of Malta’s constitution, I couldn’t help but reflect on how seamlessly this aligns with The Malta Community Chest Fund’s commitment to aiding individuals in need,” said President Vella.
While thanking all participating artists, the curator of the exhibition, and the committee members of art4mccf, President Vella said that it has been a pleasure for him to be able to contribute throughout his presidency to the consolidation, presentation, and celebration of the arts.
Lawrence Pavia, Chairperson of art4mccf, mentioned that the change of venue promises not only a visual feast of artistic brilliance, but also an immersive experience amidst the Palace’s historic setting. “In his inaugural speech, amongst other matters, President Vella had stated that as the first citizen of the Republic, his role is to safeguard the constitution of Malta, to ensure that social justice prevails particularly for those most vulnerable, and to protect and promote the Maltese language,” said Mr Pavia.
John Huber, Chairperson of the Board of Administrators of The Malta Community Chest Fund, thanked all the artists who generously donated their artworks to support this event and help raise funds for the MCCF.
“We are indebted to their generosity as much as we are appreciative of their talent, hard work, and creativity,” said Mr Huber, encouraging art enthusiasts to visit the exhibition and possibly buy the artworks on display.
Roderick Camilleri, curator of the exhibition, said that the carefully curated artworks reflect our socio-ecological context, providing a silent yet powerful reflection on national and global challenges.
“The overarching theme is embedded in a vision that promotes conservation. In our contemporary volatile world of incessant uncertainty, this simple notion of ‘Dokra’ speaks volumes,” said Mr Camilleri.
The public may visit the exhibition free of charge between today and Sunday 3rd March 2024 between 1700-1900hrs. Entrance from the side façade in Old Theatre Street, Valletta.
The exhibition is supported by APS Bank, The Point, Heritage Malta, and M. Demajo Group.
