The Mask We Refuse to Remove

It’s been over a year since the world was introduced to the sight of people wearing masks in public. In Malta, we’ve become accustomed to it, but there’s one place where the mask has taken on a different meaning. Welcome to the world of Malta’s street art, where the mask has become a symbol of defiance, a refusal to be silenced.

From Protection to Protest

In the narrow streets of Valletta, the capital city of Malta, you’ll find a vibrant street art scene. Among the colourful murals and graffiti, one theme stands out: the mask. It’s not the surgical or cloth masks we wear to protect ourselves and others from COVID-19. These masks are a statement, a symbol of protest.

Take a walk down Republic Street, for instance. Here, you’ll find a striking mural by local artist, Justin Falzon, known as ‘Falzon’. His mask-clad figures are not hiding their faces, but screaming out their messages. “It’s a symbol of people’s voices being silenced,” Falzon explains. “But it’s also a symbol of people refusing to be silent.”

Malta’s Street Art: A Voice for the Silenced

Malta’s street art has always been a voice for the marginalised and the silenced. It’s no surprise that the mask has become a prominent theme. From the anti-corruption protests of 2019 to the recent protests against the murder of Daphne Caruana Galizia, street art has been a powerful tool for expression.

In fact, Malta’s street art scene has been so influential that it’s now a major attraction for tourists. The Valletta Street Art Tour, organised by the Malta Tourism Authority, takes visitors through the city’s historic streets, highlighting the powerful messages behind the art.

: The Mask as a Symbol of Resilience

The pandemic has changed the way we see the mask. It’s no longer just a symbol of protest, but also a symbol of resilience. It’s a reminder of the challenges we’ve faced and the strength we’ve shown in the face of adversity.

As we look ahead, it’s clear that the mask will continue to be a part of our lives. But it’s also clear that the spirit of defiance and resilience it represents will not be silenced. Whether it’s on the streets of Valletta or in the hearts of Maltese people, the mask we refuse to remove is a testament to our unyielding spirit.

“The mask is a symbol of our times,” says Falzon. “But it’s also a symbol of our future. It’s a reminder that no matter what challenges we face, we will not be silenced. We will not be stopped.”