Unblinking: Malta’s New Art Exhibition Challenges Perception

In the Heart of Valletta: Unveiling the Invisible

Tucked away in a quiet corner of Valletta’s Republic Street, you’ll find an unassuming doorway. Push it open, and you’re not just stepping into a gallery, but into a world that challenges your perception of reality. Welcome to ‘Unblinking’, Malta’s newest art exhibition that’s not just about seeing, but about truly seeing.

Beyond the Canvas

‘Unblinking’ is the brainchild of local artist and curator, Mark Attard, who’s spent the last two years exploring the concept of perception and reality. “We’re so caught up in our daily lives,” he says, “that we forget to really look. This exhibition is about reminding people to see beyond the obvious.”

The exhibition features a mix of local and international artists, each offering a unique perspective on the theme. From Malta, we have the likes of Doreen Micallef and Joseph Paul Bonnici, while international artists include Maria Jose Cristerna from Mexico and Simon Stålenhag from Sweden.

Malta’s Invisible Stories

But ‘Unblinking’ isn’t just about abstract art. It’s also about telling Malta’s stories, the ones that often go unnoticed. Take, for instance, Raymond Azzopardi‘s series on Malta’s traditional trades. His photographs, displayed in a dimly lit room, force you to lean in, to really see the craftsmanship and the pride in the eyes of the artisans.

Or consider Doreen Micallef‘s installation, ‘Echoes of Silence’. Set in a room that’s eerily silent, it’s a powerful commentary on Malta’s historical silenced voices. The installation, made from recycled materials, is a stark reminder of our collective responsibility to listen and amplify these voices.

And then there’s Mark Attard‘s own contribution, ‘The Unseen City’. A virtual reality experience that allows you to explore a Valletta that’s both familiar and strange, it’s a poignant reminder of the layers of history that lie beneath our feet.

More Than Meets the Eye

‘Unblinking’ isn’t just about art. It’s about encouraging us to look at our world with fresh eyes. To see the beauty in the mundane, the history in the present, and the stories in the silent. As Mark Attard puts it, “Art has the power to make us see, really see. And that’s a powerful thing.”

So, the next time you’re in Valletta, don’t just walk past that unassuming doorway. Push it open. Step inside. And let ‘Unblinking’ challenge your perception, inspire your imagination, and remind you to see beyond the visible.