In the Heart of Valletta: A Conversation with Joe Sacco and Art Spiegelman

Imagine strolling down Republic Street in Valletta, the sun casting a warm glow on the historic buildings, when you spot two figures engaged in a deep conversation outside the Mediterranean Conference Centre. You do a double-take. Could that be legendary cartoonists Joe Sacco and Art Spiegelman, the minds behind ‘Palestine’ and ‘Maus’, respectively? In Malta for the Valletta 2018 European Capital of Culture closing event, these two giants of graphic storytelling sat down with Hot Malta for an exclusive interview.

From Comics to Testimony

Joe Sacco, born to Maltese parents in Australia, and Art Spiegelman, an American Jew, might seem an unlikely pair. Yet, their work shares a common thread: using comics to explore complex, often harrowing, realities. Sacco’s ‘Palestine’ is a firsthand account of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, while Spiegelman’s ‘Maus’ tells the story of his father’s survival of the Holocaust.

“Comics have this unique ability to blend the personal and the political,” Sacco says, his voice carrying a hint of his Maltese heritage. “They allow us to explore heavy topics in a way that’s accessible, even intimate.” Spiegelman nods in agreement, “It’s like we’re inviting readers into our heads, our hearts, our families’ stories.”

Malta’s Role in Their Work

Malta, with its rich history and diverse cultural influences, has left its mark on both artists. Sacco recalls summers spent here as a child, “Malta was always this magical place for me, full of stories. It’s no surprise I ended up telling stories for a living.” Spiegelman, meanwhile, draws parallels between Malta’s past and his own family history, “There’s something about Malta’s resilience, its ability to endure and adapt, that resonates with me.”

Sacco’s latest work, ‘Footnotes in Gaza’, even features a Maltese character, inspired by his Maltese grandfather’s experiences during World War II. “I wanted to explore how ordinary people navigate extraordinary circumstances,” he explains.

: Never Again?

As our conversation winds down, the sun begins to set over the Grandmaster’s Palace. The question hangs heavy in the air: can comics really make a difference? Spiegelman is optimistic, “We can’t change the past, but we can change how we remember it. We can challenge stereotypes, foster empathy, encourage dialogue.” Sacco adds, “Never again means we must keep telling these stories, keep pushing for understanding and justice.”

As they pack up to head back to their respective homes, we’re left with a sense of purpose. Their work is a reminder that stories, especially those told with courage and compassion, have the power to shape our world.

You can catch ‘Footnotes in Gaza’ and ‘Maus’ at the National Bookshop in Valletta. And who knows, you might just spot Joe Sacco or Art Spiegelman, soaking up the Maltese sun, lost in thought, or deep in conversation.