August brings a fresh collective exhibition to Jo Borg Gallery, showcasing the works of contemporary local artists Joyce Camilleri, Stephania Micallef, Anabel Cordina and Irene Zammit, alongside foreign graphic artist Vlado Goreski. The exhibition, titled Grafika, introduces the public to a cohesive collection of works on paper that celebrate both traditional and experimental printing techniques, as well as digital photography and mixed media practices. The artists draw inspiration from personal yet interrelated visual narratives, resulting in a diverse yet harmonious display that highlights the convergence of rigorous technical skill and experimental artistic processes. It presents a collective of works where the mastery of traditional techniques is evident, yet rules are consciously broken to explore new artistic realms.
Each artist brings a distinct perspective and a shared fondness for paper, both as a support and a material per se. Joyce Camilleri’s visual language is rooted in drawing and printmaking, extending into painting. Her Transient Series reflects her ongoing exploration of the materiality of the medium, with process-led mixed media practices taking precedence over specific subject matter. This approach allows her to delve deep into the textures and forms that emerge from her creative process.
Stephania Micallef’s woodcut prints exemplify her interest in minimal structures, characterized by raw elements of line, form, and movement. Her work strips down form and space to their essential components, creating strikingly minimalistic compositions. Anabel Cordina’s pieces, on the other hand, emerge from a meditative and laborious carving process. Guided by intuition, she engages in a dialogue with the medium, fostering a symbiotic relationship which allows the characteristics of the woodcut to yield works that resonate with contemplative introspection.
Irene Zammit’s etching and drawing practices focus on capturing the essence of nature’s complexity and beauty. Her intensely evocative forms create a dynamic interplay between stark black foregrounds and spatial white backgrounds, inviting viewers to pause, and observe the intricacies of the natural world. Simultaneously, Vlado Goreski’s practice is also grounded in traditional graphic artistic techniques such as aquatint and drypoint. This collective however, introduces the public to his recent ventures into digital composite photography. His works continue to explore his long-standing interest in apocalyptic surrealist imagery, rich with symbolism, expressionism, and the grotesque.
Grafika is a convergence of technical mastery and experimental fervour. It challenges artistic conventions while honouring the craftsmanship inherent in photography, drawing and traditional printmaking.
Press:
New collective exhibition spotlights works on paper (timesofmalta.com)
Jo Borg Gallery 