This Christmas, step away from the rush of shopping malls and immerse yourself in a space where art and creativity, history and culture come together – the Malta International Contemporary Art Space (MICAS) in Floriana.

With its breathtaking location overlooking Marsamxett Harbour and its stunning galleries carved into the historic bastions, MICAS is not only Malta’s newest cultural landmark but also the perfect destination for a festive day out this holiday season. Families love spending time inside MICAS, exploring both the Galleries and its surroundings by the Floriana bastions.

At the heart of MICAS this Christmas is the landmark exhibition Colour, Form & Composition: Milton Avery and his Enduring Influence on Contemporary Painting, a rare European showcase of one of America’s great modern masters. Featuring more than 30 works by Milton Avery (1885–1965) displayed alongside those of seven of today’s most acclaimed contemporary painters – Henni Alftan, Avery’s daughter March Avery, Harold Ancart, Andrew Cranston, Gary Hume, Nicolas Party, and Jonas Wood – this exhibition offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the dialogue between 20th-century modernism and contemporary painting today.

Although taking inspiration from European masters such as Matisse, Milton Avery revolutionised the use of colour in modern painting, and his work has long inspired generations of artists, chiefly Mark Rothko and Adolph Gottlieb, seminal American artists in Abstract Expressionism. In this exhibition, visitors will see how Avery’s legacy continues to resonate across decades and continents, as each of the participating artists interprets his influence in new and unexpected ways. It’s a feast for the eyes – a celebration of colour, balance, and harmony that feels especially fitting during the festive season.

But there’s more to enjoy at MICAS than world-class art! After exploring the galleries, visitors can stroll through the MICAS Gift Store, where art and design meet the spirit of giving. This beautifully curated shop is filled with unique treasures and thoughtful gift ideas for all ages: bespoke jewellery and leather accessories, art books, perfumes, children’s creative toys, and locally made souvenirs. Each piece reflects the same craftsmanship and attention to detail that MICAS celebrates through its exhibitions, making it the perfect destination for those searching for something truly special this Christmas.

Art lovers and culture seekers, but also those simply looking for a memorable outing for the whole family, will find in MICAS a warm and welcoming atmosphere this festive season. The galleries are spacious and serene, inviting visitors to slow down and reconnect with creativity, a welcome contrast to the busy pace of the holidays.

This Christmas, give yourself and those you love the gift of inspiration: visit MICAS to experience Milton Avery’s timeless mastery, discover how his legacy continues to shape today’s artists, and take home a little piece of art from the MICAS Gift Store.

For opening hours and full details, visit www.micas.art.