Talks on Caravaggio

International names from the world of art history will be visiting Malta to speak about the life and work of Michelangelo Merisi, the 16th century Italian artist more popularly known as Caravaggio.

The schedule of visits is being organised by the recently set up Caravaggio Foundation, which is also responsible for bringing to Malta the exhibition Caravaggio - Una Mostra Impossibile.

The exhibition, which is being held at the Caraffa Stores on the Vittoriosa Waterfront, opens on Saturday and runs until the end of June. The talks are being held to coincide with it.

Leading scholars will focus on different aspects of Caravaggio's work and his life, highlighting the finer points of his painting and discussing the controversies which continue to surround the story of his life even today. A spokesman for the Caravaggio Foundation said: "This is a unique opportunity for members of the public, particularly those who are interested in this fascinating subject, to hear the views of some of the world's leading experts, and perhaps even to put forward their own opinions".

The scholars include Catherine Puglisi, Ferdinando Bologna, Maurizio Marini, John Spike, David Stone, Mina Gregori, John Gash and Denis Mahon. Keith Sciberras of the University of Malta is the coordinator for this schedule of talks which will be held at the Caraffa Stores, the location of the exhibition, at 7.30 p.m., with the exception of Ms Puglisi, who will speak at St John's Co-Cathedral, and Mr Gash, who will speak at the Cathedral Museum, in Mdina, also at 7.30 p.m.

Tickets for the talks are at Lm3 each or Lm20 for all talks, to help defray costs. This includes a private viewing of Caravaggio - Una Mostra Impossibile.

A full schedule of the talks and other events, including musical and dance performances, is being regularly updated online, where bookings may also be made. The booking hotline is 2124 1817 ext 622.

www.caravaggio.com