Unveiling the Canvas of Time: Art, Memory, and Identity at St John’s Co-Cathedral

Imagine standing in the heart of Valletta, the sun casting a warm glow on the grand façade of St John’s Co-Cathedral. Now, picture stepping inside, not just to marvel at the opulent Baroque interior, but to explore the intricate relationship between art, memory, and identity. This is precisely what the ‘Art, Memory, and Identity’ lecture series, organised by the Malta Society of Arts, is inviting you to do.

Plunging into the Past

The series kicks off this October, delving into the rich history of St John’s Co-Cathedral, a gem nestled in the heart of our capital city. Built by the Knights of St John in the 16th century, the cathedral is a testament to Malta’s complex past and the diverse influences that have shaped our identity. The lectures promise to shed light on the stories behind the artworks that adorn its walls, offering a unique perspective on Malta’s cultural heritage.

Art as a Mirror to Memory

Each lecture in the series will focus on a specific aspect of the cathedral’s art, from the intricate frescoes to the grand altarpiece by Caravaggio. The speakers, all renowned art historians and experts, will guide us through the artworks, exploring how they reflect the memories and experiences of the people who created them, and the society they lived in.

For instance, the lecture on Caravaggio’s ‘The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist’ will not just discuss the painting’s technical mastery, but also look the political and religious climate of 17th-century Malta that inspired it. It’s a fascinating journey that transcends the canvas, inviting us to contemplate our own collective memory and identity.

Identity Through the Ages

The series also promises to explore how art has shaped and reflected our sense of identity over time. From the Knights’ grand vision for the cathedral to the contemporary art installations that now grace its spaces, the lectures will trace the evolution of Malta’s cultural identity through the lens of art.

In one lecture, you’ll learn about the ‘Maltese Cross’ motif that adorns the cathedral’s ceiling, a symbol that has become synonymous with Malta’s identity. You’ll discover how this motif has been reinterpreted and reimagined over centuries, reflecting the ever-evolving nature of our collective identity.

By the end of the series, you’ll not only have a deeper appreciation for the art and history of St John’s Co-Cathedral, but also a richer understanding of how art has shaped, and been shaped by, our sense of self.

So, mark your calendars, Valletta residents and visitors alike. This is your chance to explore the fascinating intersection of art, memory, and identity, right in the heart of our city. The series begins on October 12th, with lectures held every Tuesday until November 23rd. Tickets are €5 per lecture or €20 for the full series.

As the great Maltese artist Esprit Santu once said, “Art is not just about creating beauty, but also about reflecting and shaping our collective memory and identity.” This lecture series is a testament to that belief, offering us a unique opportunity to engage with our past and present, one artwork at a time.