BOV retrospective exhibition, dedicated to Anthony Calleja, inaugurated at BOV Centre
The 25th BOV retrospective art exhibition, dedicated to the renowned contemporary Maltese artist Anthony Calleja, was inaugurated on 20 October by President MarieLouise Coleiro Preca at the BOV Centre.
The exhibition, which is curated by Lisa Gwen Baldacchino, traces the artistic development of Calleja from his very first exhibition in 1981 to works produced this year, 36 years later.
Welcoming the guests, BOV chairman Deo Scerri said: “Today, the BOV Retrospective Arts exhibition adds another prestigious name to the already impressive list of contemporary artists. Anthony Calleja is a prolific and versatile artist, who with his inimitable style crosses between the world of paintings and sculptures with ease. He finds his muse in the day-to-day things and people that surround him, often resorting to using his self-image to express his emotions and thoughts in ways that strike the viewer and force him to confront the subject.” Speaking about the bank’s vision visà-vis the BOV Retrospective exhibitions, Scerri explained that since it set up a dedicated committee back in 1991, Bank of Valletta has always sought to create a space where contemporary Maltese artists are given recognition for their work and where the general public could get acquainted with them and truly appreciate their contribution to the cultural heritage of our islands.”
In order to provide further opportunity for art enthusiasts and members of the general public to get to know Anthony Calleja and his work, the bank announced two Meet the artist sessions. The first will be held on 31 October at 5pm, while a second session will take place on 3 November at 5.30pm. Calleja will be giving participants a guided tour of his exhibition. Participation is free of charge, however, one needs to register for the talks by sending an email with the preferred date to pr@bov.com. Patrons will be requested to present an identification document at reception desk before gaining access to the premises.
The exhibition is open to the general public until 1 December. Everyone is invited to visit the exhibition at the BOV Centre, Triq il-Kanun, Sta Venera between Monday and Friday from 8.30am to 4.30pm and on Saturdays until 1pm. This exhibition is accompanied by a dedicated catalogue, which includes a concise biography of the artist together with a reproduction of every work of art being displayed in this exhibition.