Embark on a captivating exploration of Malta’s culture and heritage with ‘TOPIA’, an extraordinary art installation by London-based artist Barnaby Barford. Hosted by Heritage Malta, this unique exhibition will be on display at MUŻA, Malta’s National Community Art Museum, from 22nd October 2024 to 19th January 2025, open daily from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm.
A Unique Perspective on Malta’s Identity
Housed within the historic Auberge d’Italie on Merchants Street in Valletta, the exhibition examines Malta’s evolving socio-cultural fabric through the lens of its iconic local shops. Inspired by the island’s distinctive shopfronts during his visit in 2019, Barford embarked on an ambitious journey across Malta and Gozo, photographing over 11,000 storefronts to create a remarkable artistic narrative.
Barford transformed these photographs into 1,000 fine bone-china miniature buildings, each representing one of the shops he encountered. These intricate works of art are arranged to form a Maltese street framed by traditional rubble walls, a signature feature of the island’s landscape.
Immersive Experience
In addition to the mesmerizing art installation, ‘TOPIA’ includes recorded interviews with shop owners, offering an intimate glimpse into the lives and stories behind these façades. This multi-sensory experience encourages reflection on Malta’s rich history and its transition in the face of rapid cultural change. The exhibition’s name, derived from the Greek word “Topus” (place), underscores its theme of place and identity.
