The Artist

About the narrative

‘The Artist’ storyline represents the achievements and struggles of Maltese and foreign artists from the late 19th century up till today. Works by Italian artists represent the art scene encountered by the Maltese artist studying in Rome. Works by local artists of the period show the influence of the Italian aesthetic. This culminates in the Maltese sculptor Antonio Sciortino, who established himself successfully in Rome.

 The struggle of the Maltese modern artist for self-expression is represented by contrasting works of the same artists in both traditional and experimental styles. The Maltese artist reached abstraction through the push provided by the British artist, Victor Pasmore. Works exploring abstract concepts by local artists complete the narrative.

 ‘The Artist’ presents the layered connections of Malta’s Mediterranean identity, its European connections, and the context of the British Empire within which Malta’s modern art was born. These links provide a connection with MUŻA’s three other narratives.

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The Artist Highlights

Explore popular artworks from The Artist narrative.

Saint Anthony the Abbot
The Artist

Saint Anthony the Abbot

Vincent Apap (1909-2003)
Benedizione
The Artist

Benedizione

Willie Apap (1918-1970)
Abstract
The Artist

Abstract

Emvin Cremona (1919-1987)
Marì tal-bajd
The Artist

Marì tal-bajd

Esprit Barthet (1919-1999)
Street Scenes
The Artist

Street Scenes

Giuseppe De Nittis (1846-1884)
Maltese Crafts and Trades
The Artist

Maltese Crafts and Trades

Frank Portelli (1922-2004)
Speed
The Artist

Speed

Antonio Sciortino (1879-1947)