The Power of Protest: Goya, Etching and the Witnessing of War – a collaborative initiative between the Malta School of Art and Heritage Malta

A collaborative journey that connects art history with hands-on creativity for young learners unfolded through an initiative between the MAVC School of Art and Heritage Malta. It brought together middle and secondary students for a unique educational experience inspired by Francisco Goya’s The Disasters of War, which was exhibited at the Grand Master’s Palace. The programme began with a guided visit to Heritage Malta’s Goya exhibition, inviting students to probe into the art and context of Goya’s works. Under expert guidance, they experimented with mark-making, texture, and tonal variation, leading to the creation of original prints that gave young artists the opportunity to explore this versatile medium.

Under the guidance of experienced art educators, they delved into two traditional printmaking techniques: drypoint and monoprint. Working with professional tools and materials, the students continued to experiment with mark-making, texture, and tonal variation—elements central to Goya’s own process. Many found the immediacy of drypoint and the expressive freedom of monoprint to be powerful ways of connecting with the themes they had seen in the exhibition. The workshop not only deepened their understanding of printmaking but also encouraged them to reflect on how art can respond to social and historical events. By combining museum-based learning with studio practice, the initiative bridged art history with creative expression, offering participants a memorable and meaningful artistic experience.

The MAVC School of Art and Heritage Malta plan to continue developing collaborative programmes to inspire critical and creative engagement for both mainstream students and art students alike.