Unveiling Masterpieces: Art, Memory, and Identity Explored at St. John’s Co-Cathedral

In the heart of Valletta, the capital city of Malta, stands a monument to art, history, and faith – St. John’s Co-Cathedral. This grand Baroque church, built by the Knights of St. John in the 16th century, is not just a place of worship; it’s a living museum, a testament to the island’s rich cultural heritage. And now, it’s playing host to an intriguing lecture series that delves into the intersection of art, memory, and identity.

Art Through the Lens of History and Culture

The lecture series, titled “Art, Memory, and Identity in Malta: A Historical Perspective,” is a collaboration between the St. John’s Co-Cathedral Foundation and the University of Malta. It aims to explore the role of art in shaping and reflecting Maltese identity, memory, and culture. The series is led by Dr. Kenneth Elves, a renowned art historian and lecturer at the University of Malta.

“Art is not just about aesthetics,” Dr. Elves explains. “It’s a mirror that reflects the society that created it. By studying art, we can understand the values, beliefs, and historical context of a people. In Malta, our art is a tapestry woven with threads of various cultures and influences – Phoenician, Roman, Byzantine, Arabic, Norman, Spanish, and more. This lecture series is an opportunity to unravel that tapestry and understand our collective identity.”

From Caravaggio to Contemporary Art

The series, which kicked off in October and runs until December, covers a wide range of topics. From the Baroque masterpieces of Caravaggio and Mattia Preti that adorn the cathedral’s walls to the contemporary art installations that challenge and provoke, each lecture offers a unique perspective on Maltese art and its evolution.

One of the lectures, titled “Caravaggio in Malta: Art, Crime, and Intrigue,” explores the tumultuous two-year period the Italian master spent on the island. Another, “Memory and Identity in Contemporary Maltese Art,” delves into the works of modern artists like Vincent Apap,ustin Farrugia, and Alexandra Pace, who grapple with themes of memory, identity, and belonging in their art.

Engaging with Art, Engaging with History

The lectures are held in the cathedral’s Oratory, a space that itself is a masterclass in Maltese art history. The Oratory is adorned with the works of some of the greatest artists to have worked in Malta, including Caravaggio, Ribera, and Veronese. Attendees are encouraged to engage with the art, to ask questions, and to share their own interpretations.

“Art is not a one-way street,” Dr. Elves says. “It’s a conversation. And like any good conversation, it’s best when it’s interactive. We want people to come, to look, to think, to discuss. We want them to leave with a new understanding of our art, our history, and ourselves.”

The lectures are open to the public, and tickets can be purchased at the door. The series concludes in December with a lecture on the art and architecture of the Knights of St. John, offering a fascinating look into the Order that left an indelible mark on Malta’s cultural scene.