Malta’s Post-War History: Unveiled in Watercolours on Postcards
Unveiling Malta’s Post-War History: Watercolours on Postcards
Tucked away in a quaint shop on Republic Street, Valletta, lies a treasure trove of Malta’s post-war history. The shop, known as ‘Postcard Collectibles’, is a haven for history enthusiasts and art lovers alike. Its walls are adorned with watercolour paintings that tell a thousand words about Malta’s post-war era.
From War-Torn to Vibrant: The Story Behind the Paintings
Malta, during and after World War II, was a far cry from the bustling tourist hotspot it is today. The island was battered and bruised, its people resilient yet weary. The watercolours on display at ‘Postcard Collectibles’ are a testament to this period. They depict a Malta rebuilding itself, its people finding joy in simple pleasures, and its landscapes slowly healing from the war’s wounds.
Among the collection is a watercolour painting of the Grandmaster’s Palace in Valletta. The building, once a symbol of Malta’s grand history, stands proud yet scarred, its facade a poignant reminder of the war. Yet, the artist has chosen to focus on the vibrant bougainvillea cascading down its walls, a symbol of life and resilience.
Artists and Their Stories
The artists behind these watercolours are as much a part of Malta’s history as the subjects they painted. Many were local artists who, like the rest of Malta, were rebuilding their lives after the war. Their art was not just a means of expression, but a way to document their experiences and the changing scene around them.
One such artist is Joseph Briffa, a local artist known for his watercolour paintings of Malta’s landscapes. His painting of the Three Cities from the Grand Harbour is a standout piece in the collection. The painting captures the essence of Malta’s resilience, with the Three Cities standing tall and proud against the backdrop of a clear blue sky.
Another artist, Vincent Apap, was known for his ability to capture the essence of Malta’s people. His watercolour painting of a group of children playing in a bombed-out street is a powerful reminder of the innocence lost during the war and the joy found in its aftermath.
Preserving Malta’s Post-War History
The watercolours at ‘Postcard Collectibles’ are more than just art pieces. They are a visual history of Malta’s post-war era, a period that is often overlooked. The shop’s owner, Joseph Farrugia, is passionate about preserving this history. He believes that these watercolours offer a unique perspective into Malta’s past, one that is often lost in the grand narratives of war and reconstruction.
“These paintings are a reminder of what we’ve been through,” says Farrugia. “They remind us of our resilience, our strength, and our ability to find joy even in the toughest of times.”
Farrugia plans to digitise the collection and make it accessible online, ensuring that Malta’s post-war history is preserved for future generations.
