There’s something beautifully nostalgic about traditional Maltese tiles, and artist Alison Agius is tapping into that by giving them a second life through art. Her debut solo exhibition, ‘il-Maduma’, opens on Sunday 9th November at il-Kamra ta’ Fuq in Mqabba, running from 11am to 3pm.

Once destined for disposal, these rescued tiles from homes across Malta and Gozo – each carrying its own history, colour, and pattern – become the foundation for Alison’s latest body of work. Through careful restoration and creative transformation, she turns these pieces of heritage into deeply expressive portraits that fuse memory, identity, and artistry.

Using oil paint directly on the tiles, Alison reveals faces that seem to emerge naturally from the intricate designs beneath. Every expression and gesture tells a story, transforming geometric motifs into emotional narratives. Each portrait, inspired by family, friends, or found references, feels as though it belongs to the tile itself, as if the pattern had been quietly waiting for its human counterpart.

Curated by Melanie Erixon, il-Maduma features 21 unique works – a limited, closed series that marks the end of Alison’s exploration of this medium. The exhibition will be on display at il-Kamra ta’ Fuq, Mqabba, from 9th to 23rd November.

Ever imagined the traditional ‘maduma’ as a canvas for art?