Editor’s note: I am reminded time and time again how I cannot live without art in my life, so much so that having an art gallery and publication is only part of my fix. I don’t watch a lot of television, only documentaries and series related to art, and I cannot bring myself to open a local newspaper too often – opting instead for an international art or design newspaper or magazine or App on my phone. This is the result, apart from me being me, of the tension created by the media and the work of politicians at large. That is not to say that there are no good people in politics, or writers or important news to take note of – but please can someone come out with a ‘good news’ publication?
Life is short, and is best spent surrounded by art, artists, designers and all those who create a better looking and functioning world. This is, however, where politics and creativity can – and do – merge. Creative collaborations do exist and have finally started to take sway in Malta. Since working in the arts in Malta in 2004, fresh out of university, the scene was embryonic and exciting – so much so that I continued to promote and organise exhibitions for then unknown artists as well as our ‘big names’ with the aim of bringing everyone together.
My striving for harmony and results – a difficult part of my nature in this abrupt and fast-paced world of ours – keeps me going. It is also something I continue to pursue, whilst artists continue to feel alone in their wish to feel part of an art world at large and be recognised for their talents. I will always believe that there is something truly unique about Maltese artists and they are also strong-willed and adaptable – the perfect ingredients for making their mark.
Call me a dreamer, perhaps, but my dream has been coming true over the years – on a personal level as well as a whole for this country. Whether we like it or not, Malta’s booming economy is no doubt going to help the Maltese art scene and market get off the ground. When it comes to art sales, it’s a buyers’ market but we need to attract the buyers. Most artists do an irrelevant job as well as create their art in their free time – or go abroad in the hope they won’t have to – but perhaps this will soon change and their real value will be acknowledged at home.
Lily Agius
