Stories Revisited: A Nostalgic Journey Through Malta’s Past
Do you remember the taste of a cold, sweet qassata on a sweltering summer’s day, or the thrill of exploring the labyrinthine streets of Mdina after dark? Growing up in Malta was a unique experience, filled with local flavours, ancient history, and a strong sense of community. The new exhibition, ‘Stories Revisited’, at the Malta National Museum in South Street, Valletta, invites you to revisit those memories and celebrate our shared past.
A Walk Down Memory Lane
‘Stories Revisited’ is a nostalgic journey through the eyes of local artists who grew up in Malta. The exhibition features a collection of paintings, photographs, and sculptures that capture the essence of growing up on these islands. From the vibrant colours of traditional Maltese feasts to the stark beauty of the rural scene, each piece tells a story that will resonate with anyone who calls Malta home.
Curator, Dr. Maria Ellul, explains, “We wanted to create an exhibition that would evoke a sense of nostalgia and pride in our shared history. These artists have captured the spirit of growing up in Malta, from the 1950s to the present day, and their work offers a unique insight into our collective past.”
Capturing the Spirit of Malta
Among the standout pieces is The Street Where I Lived by Malta’s renowned artist, Esprit Barthet. The painting depicts a typical Maltese street scene, with children playing in the doorways and laundry hanging out to dry. It’s a vivid reminder of a simpler time, when the streets were our playgrounds and neighbours were like extended family.
Another highlight is The Feast of St. Joseph by Malta’s master of religious art, Giuseppe Cali. The painting captures the energy and spectacle of a traditional Maltese feast, with its colourful banners, marching bands, and fireworks. It’s a powerful reminder of the importance of faith and community in Maltese life.
Preserving Our Past for the Future
The exhibition also features a series of oral histories, recorded specifically for the show. Listening to these stories, told in the warm, melodic Maltese dialect, is like sitting down with an old friend and hearing tales of a time long past. From the hardships of the post-war years to the excitement of Malta’s independence, these stories paint a rich mix life on the islands.
Dr. Ellul adds, “We hope that ‘Stories Revisited’ will inspire a new generation of Maltese to appreciate and preserve our cultural heritage. Our history is not just something to be studied in books, but something to be experienced, felt, and passed down.”
So, if you’re feeling a pang of nostalgia, or simply want to immerse yourself in the rich mix Maltese life, make sure to visit ‘Stories Revisited’ at the Malta National Museum. It’s more than just an exhibition – it’s a celebration of who we are and where we come from.
As you leave the exhibition, take a moment to reflect on your own memories of growing up in Malta. Then, make a promise to yourself – to preserve these stories, to share them with others, and to ensure that the spirit of Malta lives on for generations to come.
