The Malta Society of Arts’ upcoming exhibition ‘STILL STILLS’ by Anna Galea is opening this
Thursday 13 February at its Art Galleries in Valletta. More than twenty extra-large watercolour
paintings will be exhibited throughout the month of February.
With the exception of two medium-sized works, the exhibition will feature what the artist calls
“XXL” paintings. Such a large size is highly unusual for the medium of watercolours where the
more commonly available paper sizes tend to lead to much smaller-sized works than the ones
being exhibited. The acquiring of the large papers involved researching papermakers in Europe
and a process of stretching the paper to obtain the desired texture.
Asked why she chose this specific medium, Anna Galea explained her process: “As artists
working in this medium know well, large sized watercolour paintings present a tougher
challenge, however I wanted to invite the viewer to immerse themselves into my larger-than-life
subjects. Zooming in, I stylise and dramatise still life – sometimes with subtle and not-so-subtle
connotations.”
Ms Galea’s fascination with watercolour started when she began to take painting more
seriously. “With little toddlers running around me, watercolour was the safest medium to use.
As my children grew older, I went back to acrylics and oils, but I found these mediums did not
give me the transparency, immediacy, fluidity and vibrancy that the watercolour medium
presents. Furthermore, I find that watercolour can spark a certain magic into compositions with
‘happy accidents’ and broad, daring washes.”
Some of the paintings in STILL STILLS have been previously exhibited in New York and in
Washington, while others are being shown here for the first time. While she has exhibited
collectively at MSA on several occasions, this is Ms Galea’s first solo show at the venue.
University lecturer Dr Charlene Vella has helped curate the exhibition, while Professor Joe
Friggieri will be delivering a short speech as part of the inauguration on Thursday.
Opening on Thursday 13 February 2020 at 7pm, STILL STILLS by Anna Galea will remain open
until the 28 February 2020 at the Art Galleries of the Malta Society of Arts in Valletta. Entrance is free.
For more info please visit www.artsmalta.org/events/still-stills-exhibition-anna-galea
