A full programme of activities has been prepared by Heritage Malta to mark its tenth anniversary. The first event showcases the vital work undertaken by Heritage Malta’s Conservation Departments. The exhibition, entitled ‘Back to Life,’ shows how painstakingly careful work by highly trained and professional Heritage Malta conservators bring damaged cultural heritage artefacts back to life.

Artefacts will be on display showing before and after conservation as well as explainations of how extensively damaged artefacts can still be conserved. The exhibits on display range from textile items including a restored tapestry, archaeological objects, books, works of art on paper, paintings, metal objects d’art, a polychrome sculpture of the Ecce Homo and 18th century armour.

One particular exhibit, which is being shown before being restored, is a rare child’s 18th century Maltese bureau. Only a rich aristocratic family could have afforded such a luxury. A conservator will also be on site doing restoration work on a painting.

There are six departments at Heritage Malta focusing on the conservation of artefacts; the Paintings Department, the Textiles Department, the Books and Paper Department, the Objects Department (which deals mainly with ceramics, glass, metal and stone), the Wood and Furniture Department and the Diagnostic Science Department. The latter supports the conservator-restorers with various scientific analyses to determine the constituent materials, the composition and structure of the artefact and the deterioration factors which affect it.

‘Back to Life’ is being held at the Heritage Malta Showcase in Melita Street, Valletta, till the 23rd of February. The exhibition is open daily, including Sundays, from 9.30hrs till 17.15hrs.

For further information please call Heritage Malta on 23954000.

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