Cityspaces for regeneration

A number of local artists are taking over an old, uninhabited property at 78, Old Mint Street, Valletta throughout July, transforming the dilapidated rooms into something new and imaginative.

Organised by YMCA Valletta and curated by artist and art critic Raphael Vella, the unique art event, called Cityspaces, will try to regenerate well-known and unknown spaces in Valletta by creating various forms of art, ranging from paintings to sculptures.

The end-product will be officially inaugurated during the last week of July, when a publication covering the event will be launched.

Members of the public, including tourists, will be able to visit these artists-in-residence at stipulated times to see the work in progress and talk to the artists. This will allow the public to appreciate the different processes involved in the making of art. Public talks by many of the artists will also be given throughout the month.

Apart from the domestic spaces within the building at Old Mint Street, a handful of artists will also be showing some of their work in outdoor urban spaces around the city.

The artists participating in Cityspaces are Norbert Attard, Vince Briffa, Gabriel Caruana, Raymond Pitrè, Austin Camilleri, Anton Grech, Ruth Bianco, Charles Gatt, Pierre Portelli, Patrick Fenech, Mark Mangion, and Raphael Vella.

Those interested in visiting the artists at work may do so on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays, from 10 a.m. to 12.30 p.m., and on Fridays from 5.30 to 8 p.m. throughout July. Entrance is free.

Talks by the artists will be given on Mondays and Wednesdays at 78, Old Mint Street, Valletta, at 6 p.m.