06/06/2023

Central Bank of Malta launches art exhibition by Joseph Barbara in honour of Fr Marius Zerafa

The Central Bank of Malta has launched a sustainable art exhibition by Joseph Barbara to honour the memory of Fr Marius Zerafa following his passing in October 2022.

Themed Skart Għani, the exhibition was the brainchild of Fr Marius Zerafa, the first Chairman of the Advisory Board of the Central Bank of Malta Fund. The Bank went on with the initiative paying tribute to his lifelong commitment to enrich Malta's artistic patrimony. Responsible for setting up Malta's Museum of Fine Arts, the Dominican friar also played a pivotal role in the successful recovery of Caravaggio's St Jerome in 1987.

The exhibition is also part of the Bank's activities marking its 55^th anniversary. Some of Joseph Barbara's finest works, created entirely from waste generated in Malta, are being exhibited at the Bank's historic Polverista and adjacent Lower Garden.

During the launch, Prof. Edward Scicluna, the Bank's Governor, remarked that the underlying sustainability theme was chosen with a purpose.

The Bank recognises that climate change is the greatest challenge being faced by humankind. Over the years, environmental and climate considerations have also become an integral part of the Bank's operations, both in terms of its functions as a central bank and also in respect of its day-to-day activities.

In his brief address, Joseph Barbara said that through his installations he aims to convey the message that beauty often hides in plain sight.

The Fund's Advisory Board was set up by the Bank to assist in identifying projects worthy of the Bank's support in the educational, cultural, scientific and social fields.

The exhibition will remain open until 15 June 2023 and entrance is from Tritoni Fountain Square, Valletta. Visiting hours are from Monday to Friday between 08:15 and 13:45 (excluding the weekend and public holiday).

Photos: Melvin Bugeja

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