From the 9th of August to the 1st of September, the intimate venue of il-Kamra ta' Fuq will be hosting ‘Figures Unbound,’ a captivating new exhibition by Alfred Buttigieg.

Renowned for his achievements in theatre, Alfred Buttigieg is making a bold debut in the world of ceramics with this exhibition, which is curated by Melanie Erixon.

This artist's work delves into both realistic and expressionist portrayals of the human form. Characteristically, his figures are marked by a striking blankness in facial expressions, focusing instead on the emotive power of bodily contortions.

Elongated limbs and torsos, coupled with unusual head and body positioning, create a profound visual language. This distinctive approach reflects Buttigieg's theatrical background, where movement and physicality often convey emotional depth.

The exhibition offers a rich tapestry of themes. Some sculptures echo elements of human myth and condition, drawing comparisons to figures like Atlas or Sisyphus. Others evoke surreal and hallucinatory experiences reminiscent of a Hall of Mirrors.

Interspersed among these are realistic figures imbued with a sense of confidence and audacity. These pieces often evoke the corpulence found in Maltese prehistoric art, capturing a divine serenity and a tangible pleasure in corporeal existence.

Alfred Buttigieg, born in Malta in 1956, has a distinguished career as a playwright and educator. With significant contributions to Maltese theatre, including works like ‘Ir-Rewwixta tal-Qassisin' and ‘Dik il-Qtajra,’ Buttigieg’s foray into ceramics represents a new creative venture. Since retiring from education in 2020, he has pursued ceramics at the Malta Society of Art, finding it a thrilling contrast to his literary pursuits.

‘Figures Unbound’ promises to be a thought-provoking exploration of the human form, blending Buttigieg’s rich artistic background with his innovative new medium.

Will you be visiting this exhibition?

Photo credits: Andre Gialanze