Exhibition of Ceramics 2011

‘Growth, Potential & Opportunities’ is the topic chosen by ADG (the Art Discussion Group) to stimulate discussion at the Seminar on Ceramics organized at Cavalieri Hotel on Saturday 26th March 2011. A National Exhibition of Ceramics will be inaugurated at its closure in a spacious hall overlooking the bay of St. Julians in the Hotel itself. This cultural event follows that of summer 1993 when the ADG organized a similar exercise with the title: ‘Development or Progress’ and eventually published a report of proceedings in both English and Maltese in the ‘Sunday Times’ (08. 08.1993) and in ‘In-Nazzjon Taghna’ (15.07.1993).

The main scope of the actual forum is to publish a report for comparative study 18 years after that of 1993. It is hoped that ceramics on the Island has developed rapidly and substantially as a result of changing social aspirations, expectations and economic progress and

development. The purpose of the Seminar is to compile as much information as possible about the subject; try to enhance where possible the work being done by ceramists individually, in teams, and by firms and analyze whether there is room for improvement to stimulate through ceramics the social and economic development of our Island.

Quite close to our shores is the apt example of Sciacca in Sicily where about 30 ceramists in as many workshops perform so well that are regarded as the economic and financial backbone of the town clinging to a cliff and facing the blue Mediterranean. These traditional workshops serve not only to give colour and amplify the folklore of the place but also attract interested visitors and tourists. Could ceramics in Malta be exploited further towards the greater well being of the local population?

GROWTH, POTENTIAL & OPPORTUNITIES

E. V. Borg

Art is hardly a subject. It is life’s experience transformed into expression and therefore cannot be considered as a minor subject or far worse as a waste of time and money. In 1993 there was already enough sensitivity and sensibility in Malta about the subject when a ceramist stated: ‘It is important for children at an early age to play with this tactile material to develop touch, manipulative skills and the mind’. Art as play is an integral part of the educative process in man and play in animals is vital for their survival (ex. felines). Clay is plastic (soft) and can heal if moulded. It is not only therapeutic but a palliative. It reduces tension and stress when handled. In our technological globalised world man is turning to therapy to heal the pain of tension and stress. Clay is like sand (that children get so excited playing with), like the song of birds, walking in the countryside and swimming. These act on man like a balm and cure depression and melancholic bouts. These work on the mind and clear it from stress.

The topic: ‘Growth, Potential & Opportunities’, gives ample scope for discussion, research and study. The speakers and interventions from the floor could expand on: ceramics as a profession; the amateur ceramist and the high standard attained; industrial and commercial ceramics; ceramics as therapy; as hobby; technique, glazes

Anonymous

and types of clay; the teaching of ceramics at school; the private teaching of ceramics; teaching ceramics as therapy and for those with special needs; pot throwing (one-off); owning a kiln (advantages, difficulties and expenses involved); workshops and studios.

The speakers: Julie Apap, Marika Azzopardi, Joan Haber, Angelo Mizzi, Paul Scerri and Paul Vella Critien chosen by ADG represent a wide cross section of participating ceramists and include two professional ceramists, a private teacher of ceramics, an art critic, an expert in managing an industrial firm of ceramics and a therapist at the Social Centre of Mt. Carmel Hospital thus assuring as wide a spectrum of the local scene as possible. ADG would like to paint a picture of the local scene that is not only accurate but also representative. With this in mind it has invited the managers of private art galleries and those firms that specialize in commercial and industrial ceramics. The Seminar is open to the general public; it is inclusive and all embracing.

The catalogue of the exhibition in full colour also illustrates this representative stance. Teachers and masters are exhibiting shoulder to shoulder with their students who have become enthusiastic practitioners in their own

stead. Artists, craftsmen, those who practice ceramics as a hobby or exploit it as therapy are all represented in the catalogue demonstrating the inclusivity of the exercise. The catalogue includes the 1993 report for obvious reasons.

ADG has been approached by those who would like to intervene with specific subjects such as: restoration of ceramics and ceramics as therapy for those with special needs. Among the participants ADG expects to have representatives of specialized branches of study for example; psychiatrists, psychologists, physiotherapists, and educators who practice the genre for relaxation, as a hobby or as amateurs. Those who find it difficult to attend can later make good use of the printed report.

This cultural event, both the Seminar and Exhibition is sponsored by Cavalieri Hotel, Valletta Fund Management, Middle Sea Insurance and is subsidized by ADG. The Seminar is open to ceramists, ADG members and the general public. I take this opportunity to thank our generous sponsors especially Cavalieri Hotel that extended its amenities to accommodate the Seminar and Exhibition on its premises.

27. 02. 2011

Anonymous (Front & Back)

THE Art Discussion Group recently organised a forum about “The Art of Ceramics – Development or Progress” at the Hotel San Julien. The discussion was open to the 45 participants, and there was no panel, in order to ensure maximum participation, although the forum was led by a chairman.

A short history of the last 50 years of development in the field brought out some salient topics for discussion.

In the first six months of 1993 we had six exhibitions dealing specifically with ceramics and one closely related. Victor Spiteri organised a personal exhibition at the Gallerija Gaulos in Victoria, Gozo. In Malta Sina Farrugia, Ruth Bianco, Charles Sammut (exhibited at the Sculptor’s Lodge, Buskett and presently at the Fine Arts Museum), Talia Maggi/Julie Apap and a collective exhibition at the Chamber of Commerce, Valletta, all dealt with the subject. Jessica Debattista exhibited constructivist paintings but studied ceramics as an auxiliary subject.

Intense activity after a programme of training and study that started in the Sixties seems to have given positive results. Here Gabriel Caruana (1929) led the field, and is rightly considered the indefatigable promoter of the present development. He has guided a substantial number of those presently involved in practising this art and craft.

The initial effort took place at the Technical Institute, Paola, where ceramics was considered and taught as an independent subject.

John Bonnici (1932), a sculptor, also produced a large number of terracotta works until finally the Technical Institute was disbanded and the kilns and ceramic activity was transferred to Tarġa Gap, where Tony Briffa (1959) is now in charge.

Professional approachNeville Ferry (1945) was instrumental in improving

the teaching of the subject through a professional approach after studying ceramics at honours degree level in Britain. Ferry taught and lectured at the Art and Design Centre and at the University. Paul Scerri (1959) one of Ferry’s successful students who studied at Ballardini, Faenza (1983/5) continued his good work.

Paul Haber (1940) worked hard at the subject and after several courses stopped teaching and turned to ceramics as a profession and fulltime career. He founded the Alka Ceramics at Ta’ Qali employing a number of workers and exporting the product to several countries. Haber fused the art and craft in a way that while he ascertained the commercial viability of the firm he achieved and maintained high artistic standards.

Some participants at the forum were highly interested in industrial ceramics and mentioned the firm Ceramika Seracina (Attard) as an early link in the process of development. This firm used to employ the services of artists like Emvin Cremona (1919-1987) and Vincent Apap (1909) to design its products. Another reference

How the art of Ceramicshas developed in MaltaE.V. Borg reports on a recent forum which looked at the developments in Maltese ceramics in the last few decades and discussed ways to giving the art wider exposure and better recognition.

was made to the firm of De Trafford (Verdala, Rabat) for which John Bonnici often worked.

The participants wanted more information about Oliver Agius (1910-81) and Toni Pace (1930-89). Oliver Agius, a senior civil servant, was a pioneer in the field. He had a studio in a quarry at Ta’ Kandja. He used this studio as a workshop and meeting place where he invited his friends and colleagues to work in ceramics. I had once visited the place accompanied by Toni Pace.

This short history was enough to broach the subject and lead the forum to discuss a relevant number of topics: the difference between the work of a studio potter and a medium-sized firm; the relation of ceramics to the private art gallery, museums, art dealers and the market; ceramics as a profession, relaxation, or therapy; or as a healing balm in the case of mental instability and as a means of education – all these aspects were mentioned.

Gabriel Caruana with Lava, one of his creations

Article published in THE SUDNAY TIMES of August 8, 1993

Anna Ciavola spoke about the Għaqda Ċeramika Maltija, founded two years ago, which has 25 paying members.

In this short period the group has organised exhibitions and workshops in foreign countries, especially Britain. The worst problem is some members’ fear of criticism, especially when some of their work is short-listed by judges. Such members are reluctant to face this eliminatory process to raise standards.

Anna Ciavola elaborated about her class in Żebbuġ. Housewives who attend a morning class find it an excellent opportunity for relaxation. The generally high level achieved by her students confirms the success of such a class.

Tony Briffa spoke about the evening class at Tarġa Gap, Mosta. The popularity of the course hardly needs

publicity. Sixty-three students attended in 1992. This year Tony Briffa preferred a smaller class of 35. His intention was to increase the individual attention given and make the activity more practical.

He explained that is was difficult to speak of a syllabus or scheme of work as the participants vary in age, ability, skill and education. Young students find it difficult to attend between 5 and 8 p.m. Distance is a problem for those living in the south of the island, especially if they do not have a car. For these and other reasons, there were several at the forum who felt that a centre should be inaugurated in the south.

Sina Farrugia explained that ceramics was not regarded as a specific subject in schools and so was not included in school syllabi. Ceramics is perhaps regarded as an integral part of the art syllabus. In kindergarten and primary schools children are not allowed to play with clay although they are given small quantities of plasticine and ‘play dough’.

It is important for children at an early age to play with this tactile material to develop touch, manipulative skills and the mind. Valerie Agius made a statement on this psychological reflection – which was well received by the audience – which was quite critical of the prevalent situation in schools.

Sina Farrugia underlined the dire need of specialised teachers for ceramics. In almost 90 elementary schools there are only six art teachers who do not necessarily consider themselves bound to teach ceramics when kilns in schools are non-existent. A few kilns do exist, such as those left by the British Services, but these were exceptions.

Used as therapyZell Osbourne referred to the therapy given through

ceramics at Ir-Razzett tal-Ħbiberija, a philantropic institution. It helps the handicapped to integrate better in society. While the state helps this institution, it is a private enterprise that depends on the public for help and funds. Although it is situated in the south, the services at this centre are understandably not available to the general public.

In the centre for the rehabilitation of drug addicts at San Blas, ceramics is also used as therapy but having no kilns means that those attending classes have to use a private studio.

The ceramists present at the forum gave detailed information about their studies in Malta and abroad. A certain pattern became evident. The UK seems to be the country most suitable for short training courses but Italy is also highly recommended.

Julie Apap described the work of a studio potter, referring to her experience at Alka Ceramics of Ta’ Qali.

Reference was made to foreign ceramists who exhibited in our museums and galleries in the last few years, who live and work permanently among us, who came to lecture and organise work-shops locally and those who trained Maltese in foreign colleges and specialised centres abroad.

Forum participants showed their appreciation of ceramists who are doing sterling work with mental patients exploiting the therapeutic and healing powers of ceramics.

Finally a suggestion was made that a report of the proceedings should be sent to the relevant Ministries, that education and orientation should be given priority by exposing the Maltese to this interesting subject and to publish a dictionary of Maltese ceramists with a brief history and basic information about technique.

“It is important for children at an early age to play with this tactile material to develop touch, manipulative skills and the mind.”

Sina Farrugia – Mediterranja

A Work by Paul HaberNeville Ferry – earthenware, wood and paint

Victor Spiteri – 1987

AngeloAgius(1951 - )

He was born in 1951 at Qrendi. Angelo studied at the School of Art in Malta under Vincent Apap, Anton Agius and Samuel Bugeja. He worked for some time at the atelier of Camilleri Cauchi and furthered his studies at the Accademia di Belle Arte in Rome (1978-83) where he acquired his diploma in sculpture. During the period 1989-90 he studied at the Accademia di Pietro Vanucci, Perugia. Angelo attended several courses abroad including that in restoration in Venice. He participated in many exhibitions locally and outside our shores and at present is teaching sculpture at MCAST.

Email: angeloagius@gmail.comMob: 79334792

Title: BallerinaDate: 2004Size: 45cm

Medium: TerracottaPrice: NFS

LeonardAgius

(1955 - )

Leonard Agius lives in Mosta. He is 56 years old. Leonard works as a teacher at sixth form level. He is married and the father of two. Leonard started ceramic classes when he was over 30 years old. After acquiring the usual pottery skills, he developed some techniques of his own, such as working with marbled bodies. Leonard has exhibited his works in various collective exhibitions. He also paints, and sculpts in stone.

Email: agius.leonard@gmail.comTel: 21414126

Title: InnerselfDate: 1995Size: 51cmMedium: TerracottaPrice: NFS

JosephAgius(1967 - )

Website: www.josephagius.comEmail: info@josephagius.comMob: 79050295

Title: Ignored PrayersDate: 2011

Size: 22cmx42cmMedium: Stoneware

Price: €500

Joseph started his ceramic studies 13 years ago at the previous School of Art and Craft at Targa Gap Mosta. The artist has participated in several collective exhibitions and organized four personal exhibitions including the personal show at Palazzo Castellania recently in April 2010. With ceramics he often uses rusty sheet metal recycled from 45 gallon tanks abandoned in our countryside. In addition to ‘found object’ Joseph uses old newspapers that in his opinion transform into a symbolic protest as the media obscure everyday reality. Joseph Agius is not inspired by beauty. He is impressed by life’s vicissitudes, decadence and deterioration, by wanton destruction and death, the singularly democratic levelling. He philosophizes on man’s despicable brutality and violence. And although he does not moralize he exposes and condemns man’s heinous acts, deceit, hypocrisy and betrayal. Joseph Agius was born in 1967. He lives at Santa Venera and currently works as a senior registered nurse in a pediatric ward at Mater Dei Hospital.

JulieApap

(1948 - )

Julie Apap studied in England and Malta. She taught ceramics as an extra lesson in a School and taught private lessons at her own studio for over 20 years. She has taken part in collective exhibitions in Malta and abroad plus 3 solo ones. Julie makes wheel thrown pottery, hand builds sculptural work and porcelain jewellery. Her sculptural work is influenced by the Temples, inner feelings and colours and patterns around her.

Website: www.julieapap.com, www.clayartmalta.comEmail: jcapap@go.net.mt, info@julieapap.com

Mob: 79338950

Title: WavesDate: 2010Size: 30cmx24cmMedium: Hand built in stoneware with added grog. Matt glaze, 1240CPrice: €220

BarbaraAttard Pettett(1955 - )

Barbara studied at Maria Regina Secondary School (1968-1972) and at 6th form Valletta (1972-1974). She continued her tertiary education at Glasgow University School of Art (2004-2008) and was awarded a BA Design (Ceramics incl. Critical and Historical Studies). She attended various evening courses in glass and ceramics at Targa Gap and MCAST under George Muscat and other ceramics and glass jewellery courses in UK and Ireland. In Ceramics she makes functional ware glasses like mugs, glasses and plates but she also creates purely artistic items like sculptures and wall plaques. She fires to stoneware temperatures and also does Raku firings. In glass she fuses different colours and patterns to create jewellery. She also slumps glass into moulds to make 3d objects.

Website: http://www.clayartmalta.comEmail: bap@maltanet.net, barb@clayartmalta.comMob: 99408413

Title: RooftopsDate: 2011

Size: 29cmx29cmMedium: Raku

Price: €180

TonyBriffa

(1959 - )

Tony is a Maltese ceramist living in Denmark. He studied drawing, painting, ceramics and drama in Malta. In 1995 he was awarded the Commonwealth Fellowship in Arts and Crafts and was a visiting scholar at the Centre for the Arts University of Tasmania, Hobart. Tony taught ceramics at Targa Gap School for Arts and Crafts for more than a decade and lectured at MCAST. In the evening his class became a busy meeting place and very popular with ADG (Art Discussion Group) members. He is a much loved and cherished artist and teacher.

Website: www.gallerisissi.dkEmail: tony@gallerisissi.dk

Tel: 0045 63 54 00 02

Title: MISSYOUMUCHDate: 2011Size: 9cmx44cmMedium: RakuPrice: NFS

JosephCasapinta(1965 - )

From a very young age, Joseph has always taken his creativity with a passion in a world of its own reaching new heights with every stroke or form. His diverse experiments in various dimensions and media give him the ability to create works of art that balance personal moods of tranquillity, serenity and peace on one side and dynamic forces of stress, tension and complexity on another. In this ceramic exhibition, his terracotta sculptures are influenced from his last solo exhibition of paintings: ‘Elements of Moods’ held in 2009.

Website: www.josephcasapinta.netEmail: info@josephcasapinta.netMob: 79470056

Title: Shout of the TreesDate: 2009

Size: 32.5cmMedium: Terracotta

Price: €300

Title: Two LandsDate: 2010

Size: 67x37cmsMedium: Earthenware

Price: €350

CharlotCassar

(1974 - )

Born in 1974, Charlot Cassar graduated in Art Education at the University of Malta in 1996 and then took up ceramic studies under Julie Apap. The potter’s wheel is his declared passion but over the years he has been exploring other forms of expression in clay, namely slabs and wall hanging pieces. Inspired by rocks and the coastal landscape the artist has been exhibiting since 2006 and his work is now represented in various public and private collections.

Website: www.charlotcassar.comEmail: charlotcassar@gmail.com

Mob: 99804545

GabrielCaruana(1932 - )

Gabriel Caruana continues to work each day whether producing ceramics, sculptures, paintings or mixed media works. Throughout his long and dedicated career he has exhibited in both national and international personal and collective shows. His work has been acquired by many private collectors around the world. He runs a studio and the ‘Old Mill Culture’ and his pieces are on permanent display alongside other visiting artists’ work. During his career as a ceramist he kept strong links with Faenza an international centre for the medium and has often been celebrated and honoured. ‘Gabriel led the field and is rightly considered the indefatigable promoter of the present movement’. He is unique, special and popular.

Email: mary.rose.caruana@hotmail.co.ukTel: 21442127; 21443636

Title: MediterranDate: 2011

Size: 62cmx74cmMedium: Ceramics

Price: NFS

HermanCiappara

(1963 - )

Herman Ciappara has been working with ceramics since January 2000, attending classes at Julie Apap, Zell Osborne and George Muscat. His work is mostly concentrated on hand-built sculptures, with the human figure as a favourite theme. His sculptures aim to capture the human form, with its motions and dynamism, vitality, sensuality, beauty and strength in different ways.

Website: www.hermanciappara.comEmail: info@hermanciappara.com

Mob: 9986 6979

Title: WindsweptDate: 2010Size: 12cmx32cmMedium: StonewarePrice: €500

Anthony LucianCauchi(1948 - )

Anthony Lucian Cauchi was born in 1948 and studied at the Archbishop’s Seminary, Floriana. He has a Degree in Youth Work and worked for a long time in Education and in EU Regulations. Presently, he is retired and works as a full time artist and as a casual English Teacher to Foreigners. In the sphere of Art he started his studies at the Art School in Valletta, and Msida. He studied ceramics at the St Joseph Technical School, and Targa Gap Mosta. He also studied the nude, modelling in sculpture and print making at the Vannucci Art Institute, in Perugia in 1984 and in 1994. His works are to be found in permanent private local collections, National Hospitals, at the National Fine Art Museum, Heritage Malta, German-Maltese Circle, restaurants and various other places in Malta and abroad. He has exhibited works in London, Helsinki, and Perugia.

Website: www.anthonyluciancauchi.webs.comEmail: acauchi1948@yahoo.comMob: 99222897

Title: NudeDate: 2011

Size: 37cmx60cmMedium: ceramics

Price: €300

JosephEllul Vincenti

(1931 - )

Joseph Ellul Vincenti has taken up ceramics only recently and he has attended evening courses at MCAST for the last four years. His studies include glazing and Raku. Joseph has taken part in a number of collective exhibitions and two solo exhibitions. His favourite subject is to produce architectural fantasies carved out in clay.

Email: jev@maltanet.netMob: 99490006

Title: ChapelDate: 2011Size: 40cmMedium: RakuPrice: NFS

NevilleFerry(1945 - )

In October 1971 he started his studies at Croydon College of Art. After a year there he proceeded to Loughborough College of Art and Design (1972-75) to specialise in ceramics where he obtained a B.A. with First Class Honours (B.A. Hons) in Art and Design. The theme of his thesis – Symbolism in African Art – demonstrates his early interest in signs and symbols and of relating and applying his vernacular studies to international culture. He was also awarded the Licentiateship of the Society of Design-Craftsman. In 1975 he held his first personal exhibition at Gallery 359, in Nottingham, U.K.

Website: http://www.nevilleferry.info/Email: neville_ferry@hotmail.comMob: 79931153

Title: ShrineDate: 2009

Size: 49cmx35cmMedium: Stoneware

Price: NFS

KatrinFormosa

(1960 - )

Katrin studied ceramics in New York from 1982 to 1988. Then she returned to live in Gozo where in 1988 she set up her own studio. Ceramics has been her full time job since then. She also teaches ceramics and mosaic at the Wistin Camilleri School of Art since 2000. She was awarded the ‘Achievement in Industry Gold Award’ in 1996. She participated in the Gozo Project in Gotland, Sweden in 2001. Her work experience includes a five month stint in Melbourne, Australia in 2003-2004 and also took part in a Raku workshop in Krems, Austria in 2008.

Website: http://gozopotterybarn.comEmail: info@gozopotterybarn.com

Mob: 99425490

Title: EruptionDate: 2010Size: 51cmx46cmMedium: stoneware and glass and earthenware mosaicPrice: €650

MoniqueGatt(1951 - )

Monique Gatt has exhibited in several collective and solo exhibitions both locally and overseas since 1983. The brutal beauty of her masks and asexual figures are mainly influenced by African tribal art with strong tendencies towards the grotesque depicting intense facial expressions through contorted features evoking a ripple of primitive apprehension.

Email: mq@maltanet.netMob: 99492685

Title: UntitledDate: 2010

Size: 50cmx40cmMedium: Terracotta on Perspex

Price: €395

JohnGiordimaina

(1957 - )

Title: Globe PotDate: 2011Size: 120cm x 50cmMedium: Terracotta at 1100CPrice: €300

John has a natural talent for art and craft and loves working on the wheel. In reality he is an expert at the wheel and fashions globe pots of a relatively unusual size. He started painting in watercolour and oils that seems for him a remote past. He studied modelling with the late sculptor Anton Agius and his nephew Anton Calleja of Bahrija. He then continued his studies for several years at Targa Gap School for Arts and Crafts under John Bonnici, Gabriel Caruana and Neville Ferry. He is conversant with modelling, in casting and slip casting. Later he opened ‘Xaqqufa’ a workshop for ceramics at Ta’ Qali Crafts Village. He exhibited his work in a collective at the Social Centre, Mt. Carmel Hospital and at Wignacourt Museum, Rabat, Malta. John is full of enthusiasm for his art and craft and is deeply involved in his work.

Address: Wendo Farmhouse,Triq tal-Lhudi

DingliMob: 79287743

PaulHaber(1940 - )

Born in Gozo Paul Haber now lives in Attard and works at Ta’ Qali and Mtahleb. Paul is a ceramics graduate of the Central St. Martins College of Art and Design in London. His works have been exhibited in museums and art galleries in many countries. He had a long teaching career with his last post being that of a ceramics visiting lecturer at MCAST. He set up potteries in various institutions and schools. He founded Alka Ceramics which produced his designs mainly for the American, Canadian and European markets. All of his works show great technical skill, but Paul is not concerned with process, which comes to him naturally but with making the sculpture that he is compelled to produce by an inner urge to express himself.

Title: Untitled Date: 1972Size: 63cmMedium: RakuPrice: NFS

Website: www.paulhaber.netEmail: alka@maltanet.netMob: 79415224

DoloresLungaro Mifsud

(1964 - )

Dolores Lungaro Mifsud immersed herself into the art of ceramics four years ago, giving her a deep sense of purpose, with a creative selfishness that makes each piece she creates unique. This notion of originality is embedded in the process, expressing freely interpreted beauty in the result. Sea life, science fiction and jazz are her inspiration, convoluted by emotions struggling to come to the surface.

Email: d.lungaromifsud@protechmalta.comMob: 77333000

Title: HarmonicDate: 2010Size: 39cmx30cmx23cmMedium: White Premium Crank, bisque cone 06, oxides – glaze, Raku fired.Price: NFS

TaliaMaggi(1955 - )

Talia Maggi has been working with clay for 22 years.She enjoys creating wall pieces. Working with different clays allows her to experiment with a variety of glazes. What inspires her most are our coastal waters. She often partly glazes her pieces as she likes the rough texture of the clay against the smooth glazes. Although her work covers a variety of subjects, most of her ‘one off’ pieces often reflect feelings from a situation at a particular moment in her life.

Website: www.myspace.com/taliamaggi www.clayartmalta.comEmail: magtalia@gmail.comMob: 99457563

Title: Not a Straight LineDate: 2009

Size:45cmx45cmMedium: earthenware and copper

Price: €280

PiaMagro

(1943 - )

Pia Magro (b. 1943), Ceramist, attended evening classes in Ceramics at the Malta School of Art, Valletta (1983-84) and the School of Art and Crafts, Targa Gap, Mosta (1984-90). In 1990 she set up her own studio. She is very keen on observing children and considers the sea and marine life a vital source of inspiration. The basic and dominant module in her design is the cylinder. Pia took part in several collective exhibitions and in March 1996 she held a personal exhibition of terracotta works at the National Museum of Fine Arts, Valletta.

Email: pia.magro@hotmail.comMob: 79290041

Title: CoralDate: 2007Size: 32cmx22cmMedium: TerracottaPrice: NFS

SueMifsud(1968 - )

Sue Mifsud started working with clay in 1993 and is currently studying part time at Glasgow School of Art for a BA (Hons) Degree in Ceramic Design. Although originally established as a potter, moulding and hand building have become dominant in her work over the last few years having been heavily influenced by her studies and international lecturers. Sue still gets her major highs from working with clay, mixing her own glazes and playing with fire.

Website: www.suemifsud.comEmail: suespots@maltanet.netMob: 79618983

Title: Sweetie jarDate: 2010

Size: 27cmx17cmMedium: high fired earthenware

Price: €200

KevinMorris

(1949 - )

Pottery is his passion. Retirement provided Kevin Morris the time and space to realise a life long ambition to make quality handmade functional pottery. He spends many hours in his studio, throwing pots in stoneware, making his own glazes, and firing to cone 10 reduction in his propane-fired gas kiln. He experiments with local clays, but primarily uses high-firing smooth or mildly grogged clays and porcelain from Northern Ireland. The throwing characteristics of these clays particularly suit his style and firing protocols. He enjoys making things that make him (and others) happy.

Title: Stoneware BowlYear: 2011

Size: 34cm x 8cmMedium: Multiple glazes, slips, oxides.

Outside Tenmoku glaze, inside predominantly Ranch Butter glaze. Second firing to cone 10 in reduction.

Price: €88

Email: kwmorris88@gmail.comMob: 99454898

GeorgeMuscat(1962 - )

George was born in Qormi in 1962. He attended Salvatore Dimech School (1975-78) for Craftsmen under Gabriel Caruana. He also attended various courses by Maltese and foreign artists. He has also experimented a lot thus becoming an experienced thrower. Between 1996 and 2001 George taught evening classes in the subject to adults at the school where he studied himself. In 2001 he interviewed Maltese ceramists for a TV series. He is currently a part-time lecturer at MCAST. George creates a world that recalls the mysteries of the environment around man. He opens a window onto this world full of suggestion for the viewer to interpret while shades of his character are shielded within each ceramic piece. His recent exhibition ‘On Site’ (Jan – Feb 2011) at St. James Cavalier was formidable, a powerful show of force and energy.

Website: www.gmuscat.comEmail: egypt@maltanet.netMob: 99471547

Title: UntitledDate: 2011Size: 57cm

Medium: EarthenwarePrice: €600

AndreaPullicino

(1979 - )

Andrea Pullicino started ceramics with Anna Ciavola at the age of 10 where she learned both hand building and throwing. She had stopped for a long period due to her studies. However in 2008, she met Zell Osbourne and got inspired to start working in clay again. Here she developed her hand building techniques and fell in love again with the medium. She also started attending Raku courses at MCAST with George Muscat and moved on to start working in Julie Apap’s Studio where she was able to refine her throwing and glazing techniques.

Website: www.andreapullicino.comEmail: andrea.pullicino@gmail.com

Mob: 79594404

Title: Bowl with FeetDate: 2010Size: 16cm diameter: 13.5Medium: Wheel. StonewarePrice: €50

VictorSammut(1943 - )

Website: http://victorsammut.webs.comEmail: victorsammut@onvol.netMob: 77389506

Title: ExcaliburDate: 1987

Size: 78cmx36cmMedium: slab building

Price: NFS

Victor Sammut (1943-) started Ceramics on the initiative of Neville Ferry (1945-) at the Malta School of Arts Valletta in 1979. He spent 13 years with Gabriel Caruana at Targa Gap, held 8 local personal exhibitions and participated in collective exhibitions both locally and abroad. The latter include: Treviso, Macerata, Agrigento in Italy; Bremen, Heidelberg, Adenau in Germany; Maderia in Spain; Portugal and Moscow, Russia. He was awarded the Grolla d’Oro 2004 Treviso – Venice ( Diploma di Merito ) and the Silver Palette Competition 2004 (Honourable Mention ).Versions of the ‘Monumento del Giubileo 2000’ are found at the Xara Palace and Relais Hotel in Mdina and in Formia, Italy.

PaulScerri

(1959 - )

Paul Scerri started his artistic activities in the late seventies at the Government School of Art under the supervision of the distinguished Esprit Barthet. In 1982 he studied ceramics at the Accademia di Belle Arti Pietro Vanucci, Perugia and concurrently attended a course in life studies. He gradually developed a great interest in the ceramic field and furthered his studies at the Istituto Statale D’Arte G. Ballardini in Faenza. Paul also studied the design and decoration of ceramic tiles in Imola. He was finally awarded first prize in Ceramics in the “1o Concorso Avis” held at the Comune Municipale in Faenza. His creative design is highly evident at his present post at Halmann Vella Ltd. where he was responsible for the design of the new showroom.

Email: p.scerri@hmvella.comMob: 99277040

Title: AspirantDate: 2007Size: 60cmMedium: CeramicsPrice: NFS

VictorSpiteri(1945 - )

Victor Spiteri studied drawing and modelling at the Malta Government School of Art (1971-1974). Later he attended the Technical Institute Paola and Trade School, Targa Gap, Mosta (1973-1986) where he studied ceramics. He entered St. Michael’s Teachers’ Training College (1969 -71). He was employed as a teacher of Art with the Education Department between 1974 and 1997.Victor participated in various personal and collective exhibitions. Victor’s long career in ceramics shows his intensity, enthusiasm, involvement and creative talents. His work is fantastic and imaginative with wonderful glazes and consummate technique.

Address: 9, Fran©isk Portelli Str.,G˙arb GRB 1140,GozoTel: 21560745

Title: TadamaDate: 2008/9

Size: 47cmx40cmx40cmMedium: Stoneware and glass

Price: €2500

PaulVella Critien

(1960 - )

In Paul’s childhood his grandfather Gianni Vella (1885-1977) became his mentor and tutor (1973-77). Paul studied ceramics (1974-77) locally under Gianni Bonnici and Gabriel Caruana forming part of the third generation of ceramists during the 20th century. In 1978 Paul was awarded a five-year scholarship by the Italian Government. He attended the ‘Gaetano Ballardini, Istituto Statale d’Arte per la Ceramica’ (1978-82), Faenza and the ‘Accademia di Belle Arti’ (1979-82) in Ravenna. He specialized in Fine Art & Ceramics and graduated B.A. Ceramics and M.A. Fine Art. The best ceramists and sculptors at the time: Guido Mariani, Angelo Biancini, Mario Tassinari, Fulvio Ravaioli and C. Zauli were some of his masters and tutors. Paul also obtained the diploma in Ceramics Restoration.

Website: http://www.paulvellacritien.com/Email: pcritien@maltanet.net

Mob: 99445452

Title: ZolleDate: 2005Size: 50cmx50cmMedium: GresPrice: €600

DavidBezzina(1981 - )

David is a 29 year old who, since early childhood has shown a creative flair. Despite his learning disability he has experimented with painting, drawing, clay moulding and drama. Now under the guidance of Ms. Nadia and Ms. Joanne Haber, David has developed his potential further with the use of glazed terracotta / ceramics. Among his peers and teachers, David is renowned for the swiftness of his work and the rough and rugged finishing style, which has now become his trade mark and can be seen across all of his pieces.

Email: alison.bezzina@gmail.comMob: 77654321

Title: EncounterDate: 2011Size: 30cm

Medium: glazed earthenwarePrice: €100

EvaKover

(1941 - )

Eva was born in Hungary in 1941. She lived in London from 1956 and settled in Malta in 1988. She studied with Julie Apap from 2003 to 2005 and later with Joan and Paul Haber. She exhibited at the Malta Biennale in 2005, 2007, 2009, and 2011 in France, Germany, Italy, Portugal, Russia, and USA. In Malta she exhibited at the Attard School in 2005, Bay Street Exhibition 2007, Wignacourt Museum 2010, Grand Hotel Excelsior 2010, Lejl Attard Festival and MFCC Trade Fair.

Email: ek@maltanet.netMob: 79431165

Title: MelancholyDate: 2011Size: 68cm x 27cmMedium: ceramic sculpturePrice: €500

Anonymous Anonymous

An investment with a local composition offering YOU

Regular income*

A selection of bonds and equities

Participation in the potential growth of local companies

A portfolio advised by Bank of Valletta plc

A Member of the Group

local direction for a harmonised portfolio

*The income that the assets of the Fund generate in relation to their value or market, and the frequency of payment may vary and are not guaranteed.Past performance is not a guarantee to future performance. The value of the investment may fall as well as rise and any initial and/or exit fees may lower the amount invested and the amount received upon redemptions. Investments should be based on the full details of the Prospectus, which may be obtained from Valletta Fund Management Limited (“VFM”) and Bank of Valletta plc (“BOV”) branches. VFM is licensed to provide Investment Services in Malta by the MFSA. The La Valette, Vilhena and Wignacourt Funds SICAV plc are licensed as Collective Investment Schemes by the MFSA. The Vilhena Funds SICAV plc is licensed as a Collective Investment Scheme, qualifying as UCITS, by the MFSA. Issued by VFM, TG Complex, Suite 2, Level 3, Brewery Street, Mrieħel BKR 3000. Source: VFM

VILHENA MALTA FUND

LA VALETTE MALTA FUND

WIGNACOURT MALTA FUND

8007 2344 I vfm.com.mtBOV Branches in Malta and Gozo & Licensed Financial Intermediaries

VFM A5 LANDSCAPE.indd 1 2/9/11 5:21:10 PM

Panel of Speakers:Julie Apap, Marika Azzopardi, Joan Haber

Angelo Mizzi, Paul Scerri and Paul Vella Critien Chairman: E. V. Borg

Programme

Seminar on Ceramics‘Growth, Potential & Opportunities’

09.30 Meet in Hotel Lobby09.45 Participants will enter hall10.00 Seminar starts – five speakers11.00 Coffee break11.30 Seminar resumes open to floor01.00 Lunch02.15 Questions from floor & discussion03.30 Inauguration of Exhibition

Organized by ADG in collaboration with:

Cavalieri HotelValletta Fund Management

Middle Sea Insurance

ART DISCUSSION GROUP

EXHIBITION of

CERAMICS 2011A Collective Exhibition

Exhibition Catalogueto celebrate

‘Growth, Potential & Opportunities’Seminar on Ceramics

CAVALIERI HOTELSt. Julians

26 March – 26 April

Acknowledgements:Valletta Fund Management,

Mr. Mark Vella

Middle Sea Insurance, Mr. Joseph F. X. Zahra

Cavalieri Hotel, Mr Mark Camilleri; Mr. James Cassar & Staff

Malta Society of Arts Manufacture & Commerce, Mr. Joe Scerri

Social Centre, Mt. Carmel Hospital Mr. Angelo Mizzi

ADG Sub-Committee, Ms. J. Apap; Ms. M. Attard; Ms. L. Zahra

Curator: E. V. Borg

Design & layout: E. V. Borg & Mary Attard

Text: E. V. Borg ©

Front cover: ‘Flight into Egypt’ by Gabriel Caruana Back cover: ‘Shrine’ by Neville Ferry Title page: ‘Goddess’ by Neville Ferry

Photo Credits: Patrick Fenech: front cover & page 16 Kevin Casha: back cover & title page

Printing: Best Print Co. Ltd.

ISBN No: 0000000000000