A new exhibition, ‘Silence Within Abundant Birdsong’, opened at the Malta Society of Arts last week, celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Manikata Church’s inauguration. Curated by Andrew Borg Wirth alongside Sera Galea, the exhibition presents works by Austin Camilleri, Julian Vassallo, Victor Agius, and Laetitia Troisi De Menville, offering a contemporary artistic reflection on one of Malta’s most significant modernist churches.

The Manikata Church, designed by renowned architect Richard England, is a landmark of Maltese modernist architecture. With its striking design and meditative atmosphere, the church has inspired generations of artists, architects, and thinkers. This exhibition brings together sculpture, photography, and music to explore the interplay between architecture, spirituality, and the natural landscape surrounding the church.

Curator Andrew Borg Wirth describes the exhibition’s essence, ‘The church is a space of silence. Its threshold attempts to mask the sound of its outside. Whilst an abundant birdsong hovers around its walls, the architect sees potential in conserving its absence.’ Through this unique lens, the artists reflect on how sacred spaces hold history, memory, and quiet contemplation.

This marks the first exhibition organised by the newly appointed Archbishop’s Delegate for Culture, Mgr. Claude Portelli, who aims to strengthen the relationship between the Church and the arts in Malta. The exhibition underscores the ongoing dialogue between faith and contemporary artistic expression, bridging past and present.

Arch. Adrian Mamo, President of the Malta Society of Arts, expressed the institution’s pride in hosting the event, stating that ‘This exhibition not only pays tribute to a milestone in Malta’s architectural and spiritual heritage but also fosters an artistic dialogue between history, space, and contemporary expression.’

The exhibition runs until 17th April 2025, at the Malta Society of Arts in Valletta, with free admission. A book launch accompanying the exhibition will take place on April 10th, featuring essays and interviews with esteemed scholars and architect Richard England himself.

‘Silence Within Abundant Birdsong’ invites visitors to experience the intersection of art, architecture, and spirituality – an opportunity to reflect on the sacred within silence. For more details, visit the Malta Society of Arts website or Facebook page.

Have you ever visited the Manikata church?