Monday, 9 December 2024

Some 2,500 visitors marked the Open Weekend at the galleries of the Malta International Contemporary Arts Space, where the general public benefited from free access to visit the opening exhibiton by the acclaimed Portuguese artist Joana Vasconcelos.

“I am pleased at the attendance of the Maltese public to this major cultural infrastructure project, which is a unique institution for the way it has integrated the ancient fortifications of our island with a core mission to bring world-renowned contemporary art to Malta,” said minister for national heritage, arts and local government Owen Bonnici.

Minister Bonnici said the inauguration of MICAS was a historic moment that represented another step towards Malta’s pivot as a major hub for contemporary art and international cultural dialogue.

“In no uncertain terms, this ambitious €30 million project stands as yet another realised electoral pledge, and a symbol of how art strengthens our society, as well as provides spaces for creativity and social cohesion. MICAS is today a platform for Maltese, Gozitan, and international talents to showcase their work, while strengthening cultural tourism in our country.”

The Open Weekend attracted art lovers as well as families to the Vasconcelos exhibition and the works on show acquired by MICAS, namely by British contemporary artist Conrad Shawcross and the Swiss sculptor Ugo Rondinone.

The weekend included guided tours of the exhibits, workshops and art activities for children, guided historic trails, open-air games, educational activities, and live music.

MICAS executive chair Phyllis Muscat said the joyous two-day ‘feast’ had given the Maltese public a great opportunity to experience Malta’s newest cultural destination.

“We have over 6,000 square metres of historic landscape here at Floriana, that has now been reclaimed and repurposed as a space for art and culture. This once-inaccessible part of the fortifications has been returned to the community. We encourage everyone to visit MICAS.”

Book your tickets to view the Joana Vasconcelos exhibition at MICAS and other works by British artist Conrad Shawcross