Lecture Series Unveils Art, Memory & Identity at St John’s Co-Cathedral

Imagine standing in the heart of Valletta, Malta’s bustling capital, gazing up at the grand façade of St John’s Co-Cathedral. Now, picture yourself stepping inside, not just to marvel at the opulent interior, but to look the stories it holds – stories of art, memory, and identity. This is exactly what’s in store for you this autumn, as the St John’s Co-Cathedral Foundation presents a captivating lecture series.

Art Unveiled: The Stories Behind the Masterpieces

The series, titled ‘Art, Memory, Identity’, kicks off on 21st September with a fascinating exploration of the cathedral’s art collection. Dr. Kenneth Gauci, the cathedral’s curator, will guide you through the masterpieces that adorn its walls, sharing the stories and symbolism behind each piece. From Caravaggio’s ‘The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist’ to Mattia Preti’s ‘The Crucifixion of Saint Paul’, each artwork is a window into Malta’s rich history and religious heritage.

Memory and Identity: The Threads That Bind

Over the course of five lectures, the series will explore how art, memory, and identity intersect. On 5th October, Dr. Anthony Pace will discuss how Malta’s historical events have shaped its collective memory and national identity. Then, on 19th October, Dr. Maria Attard will look the role of art in preserving and transmitting cultural heritage.

But the series isn’t just about looking back. On 2nd November, Dr. Mark Anthony Falzon will explore how contemporary Maltese artists are engaging with issues of identity and belonging in their work. And finally, on 16th November, Dr. Joseph Aquilina will look to the future, discussing the role of art and culture in shaping Malta’s identity as it continues to evolve.

A Journey Through Time and Space

Each lecture promises to be a journey through time and space, from the cathedral’s Baroque grandeur to the streets and landscapes of Malta that have inspired its artists. And with each lecture followed by a Q&A session, there’s plenty of opportunity to engage with the speakers and fellow attendees.

So, if you’ve ever wondered about the stories behind the art you see in Valletta, or if you’re simply curious about Malta’s rich cultural heritage, this lecture series is a must. It’s not just about learning, it’s about experiencing – experiencing the art, the history, the identity that makes Malta what it is today.

And who knows? You might just find yourself looking at St John’s Co-Cathedral, and all of Valletta, with new eyes.