64 artists, local and foreigners residing in the Maltese Islands participated in the Public Art in Gozo Scheme, as part of the eco-Gozo action plan. The artist submitted maquettes of 120 works of art for selection which could then be commissioned to be reproduced on a large scale to be placed in various public areas around Gozo.

The works of art are in an exhibition, at the Ministry for Gozo’s exhibition hall, and was inaugurated last night by the Minister for Gozo, Giovanna Debono. The Minister thanked all the artists who participated and expressed her satisfaction for the positive response in both quantity and quality of the works that had been presented.

The Minister added that these works will decorate public places and locations around Gozo, to enable everyone visiting the island the opportunity to enjoy works of art that are not only inside the four walls of a museum, but outdoors and in public spaces. The Minister for Gozo said that the idea behind this scheme is to have commissioned works of art that reflect today’s times, thus Gozo becomes a museum in contemporary art. The Minister concluded by saying that the Ministry is writing an important page in the history of art in the islands, in particular to Gozo.

The Road Arts Scheme was launched last December as the first of its kind in Malta and was made with a view to promoting the creativity sector in helping the island to become a more attractive and interesting place.

The exhibition will remain open until the 1st of May 2011, when the process will then begin of selecting works that ultimately will reflect the natural environment, culture and history of our Mediterranean island in the 21st century. The selection process will be made by a committee of appointed experts in the field of art.

Permalink: Public Art in Gozo – Exhibition at the Ministry for Gozo