In the heart of Valletta, at the bustling Republic Street, a familiar figure was often seen – Noel Galea Bason, with his paintbrushes and easel, capturing the city’s essence on canvas. Today, Malta mourns the loss of this artistic giant, who left us at the age of 71.

Noel Galea Bason was born in Żebbuġ in 1950, but it was in Valletta that he truly made his mark. A self-taught artist, he started painting at the age of 14, his talent blossoming like the almond trees he loved to paint. He worked as a signwriter and decorator, but his heart was always in his art.

His first exhibition was in 1972 at the National Museum of Fine Arts. This was just the beginning of a career that spanned five decades. Bason’s work was a reflection of Malta’s rich history and culture. He painted the old streets of Valletta, the traditional Maltese boats, and the island’s unique architecture.

Bason’s art is not just on canvas; it’s etched into Malta’s cultural scene. His murals adorn the walls of the Old University Building in Valletta. His painting of the Grandmaster’s Palace is part of the National Museum of Fine Arts’ permanent collection. His work has been exhibited locally and internationally, from the Royal Society of Portrait Painters in London to the UNESCO headquarters in Paris.

But Bason’s impact extends beyond his art. He was a mentor to many young artists. He opened his studio to aspiring painters, sharing his knowledge and encouraging their creativity. He was a founding member of the Malta Society of Arts, a testament to his commitment to the local art scene.

Noel Galea Bason passed away on Tuesday, leaving behind a void in Malta’s artistic community. Yet, his art lives on, a testament to his passion and skill. As we bid farewell to this great artist, let’s remember him not with tears, but with smiles, for he left us a treasure trove of beauty to cherish.

Rest in peace, Noel. Your brushstrokes will forever paint Malta’s skies.