Malta’s Self-Portrait Artist: Alexandra Pace on Image, Identity & Community

Caught in the Canvas: A Maltese Artist’s Self-Portrait Journey

Imagine strolling along the bustling Republic Street in Valletta, Malta’s capital city, and happening upon a familiar face – not on a passerby, but on a canvas. This is the reality for many locals and tourists alike, thanks to Maltese artist, Alexandra Pace. Her self-portraits, splashed across walls and windows, have become an integral part of the city’s ever-changing streetscape.

Self as Image, Image as Self

Alexandra’s work is a testament to the profound relationship between the self and its image. Her self-portraits, often painted in vivid hues and bold strokes, are not mere reflections but explorations of her identity, emotions, and experiences. Each piece is a narrative, a chapter in her personal journey, echoing the words of French philosopher Jean-Paul Sartre, “Existence precedes essence. I am because I exist; what I am is determined by what I do.”

This philosophy is evident in her series ‘Self-Portraits in the Streets of Valletta’. Each painting, from the vibrant ‘Valletta Red’ to the serene ‘Blue Window’, is a dialogue between the artist and her environment. They are not just images of her, but images that define her, shaped by the city’s history, culture, and people.

Malta’s Evolving Art Scene

Alexandra’s work is not an isolated phenomenon but a testament to Malta’s thriving art scene. The island, once known primarily for its historic sites, is now gaining recognition for its contemporary art. From the annual Valletta Green Festival to the Malta Arts Festival, the local art scene is vibrant and dynamic, reflecting the island’s rich cultural heritage and its forward-thinking spirit.

Malta’s art scene is not confined to galleries and museums. It spills onto the streets, onto the walls, and into the public consciousness. Street art, once seen as vandalism, is now embraced as a form of expression, a way to engage with the community and tell their stories. Alexandra’s work is a prime example of this shift, transforming Valletta’s streets into an open-air gallery.

However, this shift is not without its challenges. The transient nature of street art means that pieces can be painted over or removed, making it difficult to preserve and appreciate these works. Yet, this ephemerality also adds to their allure, making each viewing a precious, fleeting moment.

Engaging with the Self, Engaging with the City

Alexandra’s work is not just about self-expression but also about community engagement. Her self-portraits, displayed in public spaces, invite passersby to pause, reflect, and engage. They spark conversations, inspire curiosity, and challenge perceptions of identity and image.

For locals, these self-portraits are more than just art; they are a reflection of their city, their community, and themselves. They are a reminder of the power of art to transform not just spaces, but also perceptions and experiences.

As Alexandra continues to paint her self-portraits onto Valletta’s walls, she leaves behind more than just images. She leaves behind a legacy of self-expression, community engagement, and artistic evolution. And as we walk through the streets of Valletta, we are reminded of the power of art to define us, to shape us, and to connect us.

“Art is not just about creating something beautiful,” Alexandra says, “It’s about creating something meaningful, something that resonates with people, something that makes them think, feel, and engage.”