Il-Maskerat – A joint initiative between Mikiel Anton Vassalli College Malta School of Art and Festivals Malta

On Friday, 2^nd February, two educators from the Mikiel Anton Vassalli College Malta School of Art, Ms. Sephora Borg and Mr. Matthew Pandolfino took the initiative to collaborate with Festivals Malta and organized a number of events related to the Carnival festivities and set up an exhibition named ‘Il-Maskerat’. 

The exhibition which was officially opened by the Permanent Secretary Mr Matthew Vella, showcased artworks created by 12 and 13-year-old learners as part of their formative module ’Thematic-based Project 3D’ (MQF Level 3).  

“Our two respective teachers showed their exceptional abilities by drawing from their background knowledge in carnival and theatre set design to teach and share their knowledge with our learners. The materials and processes covered for this event were papier mâché, scrap fabric, and other found objects. The learners created tactile masks and costumes based on the element of grotesque art” explained Mr Umberto Buttigieg the School Administrator. 

The exhibition displays a wide range of artworks completed during a 5-month period referring to the artistic material and work found in the School’s Archives. Numerous renowned artists were studied such as Antoine Camilleri, Frank Portelli, Gianni Vella, and Gabriel Caruana. Prof. Vicki Ann Cremona, Mr. George Zahra, and Mr. Mario Mizzi—all knowledgeable in Carnival events and history were also invited and participated by delivering informative talks and presentation to the visual art students.  

“Throughout this project, our learners have gained indispensable knowledge in creative methodologies and skills in papier mâché, paper pulp, sewing and bodice construction techniques”. 

For this exhibition opening, Mr Francis Agius CEO Festivals Malta was present and praised this collaboration between the School/College and Festivals Malta.  Permanent Secretary of the Ministry for Education Mr. Matthew Vella, Director General (Educational Services) Ms. Ritianne Borg Saliba and Head of College Network Mr. Victor Galea were present and gave their respective speeches during the launch. 

The general public is welcome to pay a visit to the MAVC Malta School of Art in 106, Old Bakery Street Valletta to view this artistic collection which is showcased at the premises of the school, highlighting the talents and efforts of the young learners.  

The openings of the exhibition il-Maskerat is open for the public as follows: 

5^th – 9^th February 2024 from 09:00-19:00 and 12 – 13^th February 2024 from 09:00 – 13:00