Government, Heritage Malta set up Malta Biennale Foundation
Foundation greenlit by Cabinet on March 10
The government and heritage agency have set up a Malta Biennale Foundation in a bid to strengthen the festival held every two years within historic sites and museums.
This foundation, which falls under the responsibility of Heritage Malta, was created by the agency and the government through the Culture Ministry, following a decision by Cabinet on March 10.
The Malta Biennale is currently in its second edition. Heritage Malta said in a statement on Thursday that the inaugural edition, held two years ago, had achieved "immediate success".
"In 2024, some of the world’s leading contemporary artists took part, and the Malta Biennale attracted significant international media attention, with several outlets naming Malta as a top destination during this new international art festival. In that edition, more than 2500 artists from over 100 countries applied to participate, and 14 thematic or national pavilions took part."
The agency said the 2024 success was confirmed by a survey showing that over 80% of Maltese respondents believed the biennale was not only necessary for the country to showcase and deepen appreciation for its heritage, but also essential for artists themselves and for the local artistic scene.
More than 75% of the artists said they were satisfied with their experience at the biennale and would encourage other artists to take part in future editions, it added.
"The second edition of the Malta Biennale is currently underway, building on what began in 2024. Internationally renowned artists are participating, and applications for the 2026 edition have increased by around 30%, surpassing 3,200 submissions.
"The number of pavilions has also grown – they have doubled since two years ago, with more than 50 applications to choose from."
So far, attendance is "very encouraging", with all participating sites reporting a "notable" increase in visitors.
The foundation was formally established at MUŻA, the National Community Art Museum and the ‘home’ of the Biennale, through a contract signed before government notary Keith German.
The contract was signed by Mario Cutajar as chair of Heritage Malta and Kevin Mahoney, permanent secretary representing the Culture Ministry.