Malta Biennale 2028
The Mediterranean as a Stage for Contemporary Art
Malta’s unique history and layered landscapes provide a compelling setting for contemporary art, with historic fortifications, palaces, churches and archaeological sites becoming part of the artistic conversation.
Following its inaugural edition in 2024 and second edition in 2026, the Malta Biennale returns in 2028 for its third edition. Its growing success, together with the establishment of the Malta Biennale Foundation within Heritage Malta, is strengthening its position on the international contemporary art calendar.
The Biennale has been shaped by cultural leaders and curators including Mario Cutajar, President of the Malta Biennale and Chairman of Heritage Malta. The 2024 edition was led by Sofia Baldi Pighi, Artistic Director and Head Curator, alongside Elisa Carollo and Emma Mattei. The edition helped establish the Biennale’s dialogue between contemporary art, the Mediterranean and Malta’s cultural heritage.
For 2026, internationally recognised curator Rosa Martínez served as Artistic Director, supported by Antoine Borg Micallef and Alexia Medici. Under the theme Clean | Clear | Cut, the Biennale presented more than 130 artists across 11 historic sites and museums in Malta and Gozo.
International names including Maurizio Cattelan, Guerrilla Girls, Emily Jacir and Halil Altindere, alongside Maltese artists such as Austin Camilleri, Bettina Hutschek and Concetta Modica, reflected the Biennale’s expanding international scope.
What makes the Biennale distinctive is its relationship with place: contemporary art unfolds within Malta and Gozo’s historic architecture, creating encounters between heritage, history and new artistic perspectives.
With the 2028 programme, theme, curator and artists yet to be announced, anticipation is already building. Malta will once again become a stage—not simply as a backdrop to contemporary art, but as an active participant in the conversation.
For artists, curators and cultural practitioners interested in participating, keep an eye on the official Malta Biennale channels for upcoming open calls, application details and deadlines. As preparations for 2028 develop, these announcements will provide opportunities to apply, participate and become part of the next edition.
