Hilary Spiteri

Hilary Spiteri on Malta l-Lejla - NET tv re.: Academic Artistic Training in early British Malta

2012-02-16T09:22:00.002+01:00

Recently, I was invited for an interview regarding my latest publication during the popular afternoon TV show Malta l-Lejla.

Stephanie Spiteri (conductor) hosts this daily early evening magazine show which is balanced between being informative and educational, inquisitive and fun. Daily interviews with people making the news or people less in the limelight, people from our past, people with something interesting to say.

I was invited for this fourth edition which tackles various aspects of Maltese life and touch on topics which will surely allow our viewers to relax and watch, watch and learn, learn and do! The show is aired daily from Monday to Friday between 17:00-18:45 on NET TV.

Artists and Optics Lecture by Hilary Spiteri

2012-02-15T13:11:00.003+01:00

In January 2012 I had the opportunity to address the Malta Institute of Professional Photography members during a lecture entitled 'Artists and Optics - photography techniques employed by artists 300 years before the advent of photography'.

The lecture turned out to be a very positive one in which the very first photography techniques employed by artists 300 years before the Deguerrian practices of photography were discussed.

The lecture was held at Corinthia Hotel, St Georges Bay, St Julians Malta on the 4th of January 2012 at 20:00.

Academic Artistic Training in early British Malta - The Sunday Times review by Kenneth Zammit Tabona

2012-02-02T12:14:00.000+01:00

With the decision taken by the government to move the national art collection back to Auberge d’italie from what is still popularly known as Admiralty House in South Street comes the publication of Hilary Spiteri’s Academic Artistic Training in Early British Malta.

This is an erudite tome that required a humongous amount of research to complete and which casts a revelatory light on a period that was initially obscured in historical turmoil and later absorbed in the great British ideal as laid down by the visionary Prince Consort.

What comes out loud and clear is what a debt of gratitude we owe to Canon (later Bishop) Francesco Saverio Caruana who was, besides Malta’s premier patriot, hailed as Malta’s Maecenas and who founded and directed the School of Design within the ambit of Malta’s re- established university in 1803 after the disagreeable Napoleonic interlude, which flourished till Caruana’s installation as Bishop of Malta in 1822.

Born in 1759 into a wealthy Żebbuġ family with strong aristocratic connections, Francesco Saverio was a great patron of the arts and was the prime political mastermind during the turbulent period which saw the final days and expulsion of the Order of Malta, the Napoleonic aberration and the insurrection of the Maltese against it. He was also the chief negotiator who facilitated the transition of Malta from a semimonastic sovereign principality to becoming a jewel in the British King’s crown.

Much has been written about Mgr Caruana, who still remains a controversial figure in Maltese history depending which end of the political lens one observes him from.

To have received an accolade from the notoriously difficult and abrasive Governor Thomas Maitland, is enough to show that this statesman brought peace to Malta at a time when Europe was in conflagration.

His elevation to Bishop of Malta in 1822 marked the beginnings of the accords between Church and State which, believe it or not, are extant even today. His biography was written by his great nephew the Count of Beberrua, Vincenzo Caruana Gatto and is a primary source of reference in Spiteri’s treatise.

This tome proves two diametrically unrelated theories: one that art is interderivative and that nothing can exist in isolation. Trying to prove otherwise reminds me of those stories of babies raised by wolves ( not Romulus and Remus, of course) who in their post- pubescence had to learn the rudiments of being and acting like a human being.

Therefore, the history and development of art is like case law; dependent on previous experience whatever anyone says.

The other theory is that art and politics are and will always be inextricably linked. In Malta this is amply proved by the establishment of that august institution which still exists today: the Society for Arts, Manufactures and Commerce, which though it may sound anachronistic today, represented at its foundation in 1852 the latest in modern academia in accordance with the theories devised by Albert of Saxe- Coburg and Gotha, husband of Queen Victoria and universally known as the Prince Consort.

It is indeed intriguing to note that the society was set up a year after the great exhibition in London which was by all accounts epochmaking at many levels and which established the British Empire as the primus inter pares of European states.

The remote outpost of Malta was indeed blessed to have been included in the prince’s intellectually sound plans. It is interesting to note that this was before the opening of the Suez Canal – an event that transformed the economic history of Malta forever, turning a hitherto fossilised and still ecclesiastical ruling class into a dynamic mix with the newly established plutocratic tycoons who established great fortunes in their dealings across the Mediterranean form Gibraltar to Alexandria.

Visually the book’s impact is minimal and has no pretensions to being what can be termed a coffee table type feast of design and colour. What it does have is a wealth of drawings mistily by Raffaele Caruana that are found in the five portfolios consisting of 440 works found in the reserve collection of the National Museum of Fine Arts.

I was also intrigued that the plaster casts we have all gazed and studied at the School of Art, which was set up in 1926, has the same plaster casts that were purchased by Francesco Saverio Caruana for his School of Design; this is providential, as towards the middle of the 19th century it became increasingly difficult to use live models as Roman Catholic bigotry and Victorian prurience joined forces to eventually make this impossible.

Although the casts replicate great works of art like the Apollo of the Belvedere and a number of Parthenon friezes, to mention but a few, there is absolutely no comparison – and believe me I know first- hand – to the real thing.

No matter how artfully lights are placed a plaster cast remains what it is and can never ever remotely replace the real thing. Yet for decades upon decades Maltese artists had to make do.

As Sandro Debono, senior curator of the National Museum of Fine Arts, points out in his foreword, Spiteri is the latest in the growing number of researchers whose interest in the National Collection has enriched our knowledge of the history of art in Malta.

Again, with the reestablishment of the History of Art Department at the University as late as 1988 by Fr Peter Serracino Inglott, the former rector, and Mario Buhagiar who still today is the head of the department, the study of our creative history has been under scrutiny for the past 23 years.

I well remember two great books which only a couple of decades ago set the trend and changed local bibliography forever; one was the same Buhagiar’s The Iconography of the Maltese Islands and the other was Nicholas de Piro’s The International Dictionary of Artists who Painted Malta.

These books laid the foundation stone for the vibrant art scene that thrives in Malta today; one which I hope will continue to flourish and place Malta on the international artistic map as a unique island with a unique history, if and when the powers that be understand the need to have a museum of Modern and Contemporary Art besides the extant Fine Arts one.

Only then will we be able to fully appreciate the artistic activity of this small but spunky island population, which despite all odds tries its best on many counts to disprove Aesop’s fable of the frog and the cow, and more often than not manages to do so.

ARTISTS AND OPTICS - Lecture by Hilary Spiteri

2011-12-31T08:30:00.001+01:00

________________________________________________________________________________________________

ARTISTS AND OPTICS

photography techniques employed by artists 300 years before the advent of photography

Hilary Spiteri will be holding a lecture entitled Artists and Optics where he will be discussing the very first photography techniques employed by artists 300 years before the Deguerrian practices of photography.

The lecture will be held at Corinthia Hotel, St Georges Bay, St Julians Malta on the 4th of January 2012 at 20:00.

The lecture is open to the general public.

Leonardo: A painter at the Court of Milan - A worth visiting exhibition!

2011-12-26T09:22:00.002+01:00

Artisticallyspeaking, December 2011 presented me a great opportunity of visiting theBritish capital, London, and paying a visit at the world renowned current exhibition:Leonardo: A painter at the Court ofMilan. Mr Patrick Sammut, my fellowcolleague, and five students accompanied me throughout this late 15th centuryLeonardian tour.

Someinformation about the exhibition

Leonardo daVinci: Painter at the Court of Milan’ is the most complete display of Leonardo’s raresurviving paintings ever held. This unprecedented exhibition – the first of itskind anywhere in the world – brings together sensational international loansnever before seen in the UK.

Leonardothe artist

Whilenumerous exhibitions have looked at Leonardo da Vinci as an inventor,scientist or draughtsman, this is the first to be dedicated to his aims andtechniques as a painter. Inspired by the recently restored National Gallerypainting, The Virgin of the Rocks, this exhibition focuses on Leonardo asan artist. In particular it concentrates on the work he produced ascourt painter to Duke Lodovico Sforza in Milan in the late 1480s and 1490s.

As a painter,Leonardo aimed to convince viewers of the reality of what they were seeingwhile still aspiring to create ideals of beauty – particularly in his exquisiteportraits – and, in his religious works, to convey a sense of awe-inspiringmystery.

Workson display

Featuring thefinest paintings and drawings by Leonardo and his followers, the exhibitionexamines Leonardo’s pursuit for perfection in his representation of the humanform. Works on display include ‘La Belle Ferronière’ (Musée du Louvre,Paris), the ‘Madonna Litta’ (Hermitage, Saint Petersburg) and ‘Saint Jerome’(Pinacoteca Vaticana, Rome).

The twoversions of Leonardo’s ‘Virgin of the Rocks’ – belonging to the NationalGallery and the Louvre – were shown together for the first time.

The finalpart of the exhibition features a near-contemporary, full-scale copy ofLeonardo’s famous ‘Last Supper’, on loan from the Royal Academy. Seen alongsideall the surviving preparatory drawings made by Leonardo for the 'Last Supper',visitors will discover how such a large-scale painting was designed andexecuted.

Hilary Spiteri featured on MEANDER re: Academic Artistic Training in early British Malta

2011-12-23T19:14:00.004+01:00

Hilary Spiteri interviewed on his latest publication Academic Artistic Training in early British Malta by Mariella Pisani Bencini on MEANDER.

Hilary Spiteri featured on Il-GENS by Patrick Sammut

2011-12-20T17:44:00.001+01:00

Hilary Spiteri llum huwa lecturer tal-Istorja tal-Arti fis-Sitt Klassi tal-Kulleġġ ta’ De La Salle. Huwa parti mill-grupp Footprints li jdoqq mużika tal-ġeneru Christian Rock. Huwa wkoll wieħed mill-artisti żgħażagħ kontemporanji u fotografu dilettant. Dan l-aħħar ħareġ il-ktieb tiegħu bl-isem ta’ Academic Artistic Training in Early British Malta. Għal iktar tagħrif wieħed jista’ jara s-sit: www.hilaryspiteri.com

L-Intervista:

1. X’inhu l-isfond tiegħek f’rabta mad-dinja tal-Arti?

Fil-prezent nista nghid li l-Arti tinvolvi parti sostanzjali minn hajti. Hija kemm il-professjoni tieghi kif ukoll il-passatemp tieghi. Fuq bazi personali jien involut artisitikament fi produzzjoni ta’ arti pittorika, muzika kif ukoll kitba.

2. Minn fejn bdiet l-idea li tippubblika xogħol bħal dan?

Din ir-ricerka taf il-bidu taghha meta kont ghadni student unversitarju. Infatti l-bicca l-kbira tar-ricerka saret ghall-Masters li jiena ghamilt fid-Dipartiment tal-Istorja tal-Arti fl-Università ta’ Malta. Xi ftit snin wara li wettaqt b’success dan l-istudju, sibt hafna inkoraggiment minn kollegi u hbieb sabiex ngholli din ir-ricerka ghall-livell ta’ publikazzjoni. Minkejja li kienet triq twila u xi mdaqqiet b’hafna ostakoli, nista nghid li l-perseveranza wasslitni sabiex intemm dan il-progett li jaghti gieh lill-istorja ta’ art twelidi.

3. X’tittratta eżattament din il-pubblikazzjoni tiegħek? Kemm ħaditlek żmien biċċa xogħol bħal din?

Il-ktieb bit-titlu 'Academic Artistic Training in early British Malta', joffri studju dettaljat fuq il-pedagogija akkademika artistika li kienet offruta f’Malta fl-ewwel sittin sena tal-hakma kolonjali Ingliza (1800-1860). Dan il-ktieb huwa l-ewwel produzzjoni Maltija li tittratta b’mod dettaljat it-taghlim tal-arti fl-ewwel zminijet bikrija tal-Inglizi f’Malta.

Ir-ricerka li wettaqt tul dawn l-ahhar disa’ snin ma kinitx wahda facli. Grazzi ghall-appogg u l-ghajnuna li sibt minn ghalliema u kollegi, fosthom il-Professur Mario Buhagiar, Kap tad-Dipartiment tal-Istorja tal-Arti fl-Università ta’ Malta, u l-hidma kontinwa permezz ta’ ricerka f’dokumenti originali, kemm f’Malta kif ukoll f’pajjizi barra minn xtutna (Ruma u Londra), irrnexxieli nifformola stampa cara tal-istabbilimenti ewlenin f’Malta li kienu joffru mezzi didattici artisitci u min kienu l-ghalliema, studenti u artisti fl-ewwel nofs tas-seklu dsatax.

4. Għal min hija mmirata l-aktar?

Din il-publikazzjoni hija wahda ta’ natura teknika. Ghaldaqstant inhoss li l-element viziv kif ukoll l-adattament tal-kitba jghinu sabiex din il-publikazzjoni sservi bhala passagg li jittratta l-aspetti artistiku, socjali u politiku f’Malta, fl-ewwel snin tal-hakma Ingliza.

5. Inħoss li element importanti ħafna f’din il-pubblikazzjoni huwa l-aspett viżiv. Xi tgħid dwar dan?

L-aspett viziv ta’ din il-publikazzjoni involva ammont sostanzjali ta’ energija u xoghol sabiex il-prodott ikun wiehed tal-oghla livell. It-tfassil u l-issettjar huwa wiehed ta’ natura semplici u diretta sabiex jagevola lill-qarrej. Min-naha l-ohra, huwa ta’ min japprezza r-rikkezza fotografika tax-xoghlijiet artisitici li toffri din il-publikazzjoni. Kull dettal gie evalwat sabiex il-qarrej ikollu pprovuduta gwida viziva parallela mal-kontenut.

6. X’inhi l-importanza ewlenija ta’ ktieb bħal dan?

Dan il-ktieb jiftah tieqa fuq aspetti interessanti fuq il-perjodu Ingliz ta’ Malta fejn ftit li xejn gie apprezzat u ricerkat. Dan il-ktieb joffri nisga ta’ avvenimenti artistici li sehhew f’Malta u li mmodifikaw l-identita taghna bhala poplu.

7. Żgur li Malta qed terġa’ titqiegħed fuq quddiem bi proġett bħal dan. Xi tgħid dwar hekk?

Malta kellha x-xorti li ghaddiet minn taht l-idejn ta’ diversi hakkiema li ddominaw b’supremazija fl-ibhra tal-Ewropa. Tajjeb li wiehed josserva li meta Malta saret kolonja Ingliza, hija saret parti minn dominju kbir li bla ebda dubju halla impatt qawwi u pożittiv fuq livell amministrattiv u edukattiv. Din il-publikazzjoni titfa’ dawl fuq dan il-progress u kif Malta zammet pari passu mal-medda taz-zmien.

8. Xi tgħid dwar it-tagħlim tal-Arti fl-iskejjel Maltin illum? Għamilna pass lura jew ’il quddiem? X’jista’ jsir għall-aħjar?

L-arti fl-iskejjel Maltin hadet spinta ’l quddiem. Min-naha l-ohra nahseb li fadal hafna xi jsir sabiex l-istudenti taghna jingħataw formazzjoni artistika kompluta. Personalment inhoss li n-nuqqas ta’ rizorsi presenti fl-iskejjel kif ukoll in-nuqqas ta’ rikonixximent tad-dixxiplina artisitka fuq livell terzjarju qed jillimitaw dan is-suggett.

9. Inti kif tirrikonċilja x-xogħol tiegħek ta’ għalliem, l-attività kreattiva tiegħek bħala artist u proġetti ambiżżjużi u ta’ natura akkademika bħal dan il-ktieb tiegħek?

L-attività artisitka, il-professjoni tieghi u n-natura akkademika jinvolvu hafna hin u hsieb u ghalqadstant mhux daqshekk facli sabiex wiehed jilhaq kompromess. Min-naha l-ohra nhoss li din hija nisga fejn ghandek elementi differenti li jikkumplimentaw lil xulxin u jaghmlu l-affarijiet aktar interessanti. Dan iservi ta’ stimulu sabiex navvanza aktar ’il quddiem bil-progetti tieghi li ghaldaqstant iservu ta’ kontribut ghas-socjetà li naghmel parti minnha.

Intervista ta' Patrick Sammut

Hilary Spiteri featured on MUZAJK by Natasha Turner

2011-12-20T17:34:00.003+01:00

Hilary Spiteri interviewed by Natasha Turner on Il-Mument Newspaper

2011-11-28T07:15:00.001+01:00

Il-Hadd, 27 ta’ Novembru, 2011 - INTERVISTA

Artist minn kull dimensjoni

Natasha Turner tintervista lil Hilary Spiteri

L-arti, il-muzika u l-fotografija huma l-akbar passjonijiet tieghu. Ghalkemm fit-tlieta li huma ha tahrig differenti, hu jhoss li huma tliet dixxiplini li jmorru hafna ma’ xulxin u li joffrulu spunt ta’ ispirazzjoni kontinwa. Ghandu wkoll passjoni kbira lejn it-taghlim u l-istorja tal-arti. Il-professjoni ta’ Hilary Spiteri – dik ta’ ghalliem – izzommu f’kuntatt mad-dinja ta’ madwaru filwaqt li l-istudenti tieghu jimlewh bil-hegga u l-kuragg biex ikollu hidma dejjiema. Is-suggett li hu tant ghal qalbu u li specjalizza fih jittratta l-arti akkademika prodotta fl-ewwel zminijiet tal-perjodu Ingliz f’Malta. Din ir-ricerka wasslitu biex jaghmel xi mawriet barraminn Malta biex jirricerka, specjalment f’Ruma. Fil-bidu ta’ dan ix-xahar ippubblika ktieb dwar ir-ricerki tieghu,bl-isem Academic, Artistic Training in Early British Malta.

Xi tghidilna dwar il-pubblikazzjoni l-gdida tieghek?

Il-ktieb jismu Academic Artistic Training in Early British Malta, prodott mill-Allied Publications. Dan joffri studju dettaljat fuq il-pedagogija akkademika artistika li kienet offruta f’Malta fl-ewwel sittin sena tal-hakma kolonjali Ingliza(1800-1860). Dan il-ktieb hu l-ewwel produzzjoni Maltija li tittratta b’mod dettaljat it-taghlim tal-arti fl-ewwel zminijiet tal-Inglizi f’Malta.

Ir-ricerka li wettaqt tul l-ahhar snin ma kinitx facli. Grazzi ghall-appogg u l-ghajnuna li sibt mill-ghalliema u mill-kollegi, fosthom il-Professur Mario Buhagiar, il-Kap tad-Dipartiment tal-Istorja tal-Arti fl-Università ta’ Malta, u l-hidma kontinwa permezz tar-ricerka f’dokumenti originali, kemm f’Malta kif ukoll f’pajjizi ohra barra minn xtutna (Ruma u Londra), irrnexxieli nifforma stampa cara tal-istabbilimenti ewlenin f’Malta li kienu joffru l-mezzi didattici artistici u min kienu l-ghalliema, l-istudenti u l-artisti fl-ewwel nofs tas-seklu dsatax.

Il-ktieb joffri passagg ta’tliet stadji storici li ghadda minnhom pajjizna: it-tmiem tal-hakma tal-Ordni ta’ San Gwann, il-wasla tal-Francizi u l-irvellijiet tal-Maltin li wasslu ghall-hakma Ingliza.Din il-qalba halliet impatt qawwi fuq diversi aspetti, fosthom dawk politici u socjali. Fil-ktieb hemm spjegat b’certa reqqa, il-perijodu tat-transizzjoni li ghadda minnu l-istabbiliment edukattiv Malti.

It-twaqqif tal-Iskola tad-Disinn fi hdan l-Università ta’Malta – li kienet taht it-tmexxija tal-Kanonku Francesco Saverio Caruana – kienet rivelazzjoni ghall-istudenti Maltin li kellhom ghal qalbhom l-arti u l-industrija. Persunaggi maghrufa fl-istorja tal-arti Maltija, fosthom Michele Busuttil, Giorgio Pullicino, Pietro Paolo Caruana, Raffaele Caruana, MicheleBellanti, Giuseppe Calleja u Giuseppe Calì taw kontribut qawwi f’din l-iskola fejn iggwidaw lill-istudenti Maltin biex imorru jistudjaw l-arti f’akkademji rinomati barra minn xtutna u jaghtu gieh lil pajjizhom. Il-ktieb jittratta diversi elementi relatati mad-didattika artistika.

Elementi mportanti hafna msemmi hul-introduzzjoni tal-Iskola tan-Nudo fi hdan l-istess Skola tad-Disinn. Aktar ’il quddiem, f’wiehed mill-kapitli, hemm prezentat studju dwar l-istatwi tal-gibs li jinsabu fl-iskola tal-arti kif ukoll fil-bini tal-Università l-Antika, il-Belt Valletta. Dawn l-istatwi kienu manifatturati u migjubin mill-Ewropa u jafu l-ewwel uzu taghhom propju fl-Iskola tad-Disinn. Ma jonqosx li nsemmi l-istudenti li attendew l-Iskola tad-Disinn. Infatti, rapprezentati wiehed isib mixeghla ta’ disinji maghmula mill-istess studenti Maltin, prizervati fil-Muzew tal-Arti, il-Belt Valletta, fejn jakkumpanjahom hemm studju relatat.

X’messaggi trid twassal bl-arti tieghek?

Personalment ma ghandix hafna pretensjonijiet ghall-arti tieghi. Qatt ma kelli f’mohhi li bl-arti tieghi nohloq xi rivoluzzjoni jew tibdil fid-dinja ta’ madwari. Ghaldaqstant dejjem infittex lix-xoghol tieghi jkun ricerkat kif jisthoqq u li jsir b’certu livell gholi ta’ dedikazzjoni. Jiena nfittex li bl-arti tieghi nohloq tbissima u esperjenza ta’ kulur. Uhud mill-aktar kummenti gratifikanti li qatt ircivejt fuq ix-xoghol tieghi kienu li l-kuluri huma vivaci u l-kompozizzjoni li nohloq inisslu sens ta’ ferh u tbissima f’dak li jkun. Dan ghalija jfisser hafna, ghaliex il-kwadru tieghi jkun wasal biex jolqot il-karattru emottiv ta’dak li jkun espost ghalih.

Hemm xi nies li influwenzawk, u b’liema modi?

L-involviment tieghi fid-dinja tal-Istorja tal-Arti wassalni biex insir naf hafna aktar fuq artisti varji minn diversi perjodi tal-Istorja tal-Arti. Ghaldaqstant, zewg artisti li tassew jaffaxxinani x-xoghol taghhom huma Rembrandt u J.M.W. Turner. Il-kwalità tat-tessut, kif ukoll il-manipulazzjoni taz-zebgha taz-zejt fil-kwadri ta’ Rembrandt joffru spettaklu ghall-ghajn li mhux ta’ min jitilfu. Min-naha l-ohra, il-freskezza u l-ambjent atmosferiku li Turner jimmortalizza fix-xeni pittorici tieghu jittrasportawni f’dinja kulurita kompletament estranea ghalija.Fuq bazi lokali jattirani hafna d-disinn metikoluz u meqjus tal-artist Emvin Cremona. Barra minn hekk, l-ahhar u mhux l-inqas, artist lokali li tassew halla impatt qawwi fuqi hu Charles Cassar, li kontinwament jarrikkixxi l-karattru artistiku tieghi b’ispirazzjoni immaginattiva u b’forom kuluriti.

Tahseb li l-Maltin japprezzawha bizzejjed l-arti?

Il-poplu Malti hu poplu msawwar, sa minn zmien missirijietna, minn ghagna kulturali qawwija – naturalment, kulhadd fuq il-livell personali tieghu. Personalment inhoss li ghalkemm il-poplu Malti ghamel passi ta’ ggant fejn jidhol l-apprezzament artistiku, nahseb li fadal hafna xi jsir fejn tidhol l-edukazzjoni artistika. Jien inhoss li f’Malta l-edukazzjoni artistika hi sottovalutata, bil-kosegwenza li t-tahrig artistiku ingenerali fl-iskejjel Maltin jitqies fuq livell inferjuri jew vokazzjonali. Jiena nemmen li d-dixxiplina artistika, fuq diversi livelli, issawwar bniedem denju tal-istorja li ssawru u tat-twemmin li hu jhaddan!

Xi jdejqek jew xi jweggghek l-aktar fis-socjetà?

Is-socjetà ta’ madwari toffri bosta opportunitajiet. Ghaldaqstant jien ninsab imwegga’ minn sitwazzjoni ta’ menefregizmu (terminu li nhobb nuza hafna u li jfisser:“kulhadd jigi jaqa’ u jqum minn kollox”) li dan l-ahhar sar fenomenu komuni fiz-zghazagh, mhux biss Maltin imma anki globalment. Dan qed iwassal biex qed tkun generata atmosfera ta’nuqqas ta’ interess u hegga,dominata minn uzu abbuziv tad-dinja elettronika. Min-naha l-ohra, fuq livell lokali, jien ninsab urtat fuq in-nuqqas ta’ trasparenza f’kull livell tas-socjetà Maltija, lithaddan dan il-kuncett b’certa sahha. Mhuwiex facli li f’dan l-ambjent wiehed jirnexxi bil-progetti tieghu.

X’tixtieq l-aktar f’hajtek?

Hemm hafna affarijiet materjali li wiehed ikun jixtieq f’hajtu, fosthom is-success, ir-reputazzjoni u l-istabbiltà socjali. Ghalkemm, sincerament, inkun qed nonqos jekk ngnid li ma nixtieq xejn minn dan. Biss, nahseb li l-aktar li nixtieq huma affarijiet dejjiema, bhall-kuntentizza interna, li nemmen li twassal ghall-ispirazzjoni dejjiema, il-mutur / muza tal-artist. L-aktar haga li nixtieq fuq bazi lokali hi li l-element zaghzugh jinghata aktar cans ghall-espressjoni u iktar opportunitajiet biex wiehed javvanza u jesponi l-potenzjal tieghu. Inhoss li Malta tkun qed titlef meta diversi individwi jistabbilxxu ruhhom b’success barra minn xtutna minhabba li l-kwalitajiet eccellenti taghhom ma jkunux gew apprezzati, anzi spiccaw imwarrbin.

Ghal aktar informazzjoni dwar dan l-artist,wiehed jista’ jzur:

www.hilaryspiteri.com

www.hilaryspiteri.blogspot.com

Hilary Spiteri featured on PBS re: Academic Artistic Training in early British Malta

2011-11-18T07:06:00.001+01:00

The recently published book by Hilary Spiteri, entitled Academic Artistic Training in early British was featured on Malta' national television station PBS. The feature was written by Mr. Sergio Mallia and filmed by Mr. David Gutteridge.

The short clip, which was filmed at the National Museum of Fine Arts, Valletta, Malta, summarizes the plot behind this new publication. It also discussed the highlights of this book offering a hands-on exposure of a number of original drawings, preserved in the Maltese national collection, which feature in the said publication.

The feature stresses the importance of this publication as being the first one of its kind in Malta and also about the relevance of this study in our contemporary art practices.

The feature was produced in Maltese language.

Artistic scenario in early British Malta - www.timesofmalta.com

2011-11-10T17:12:00.002+01:00

The makings of an artist.

We often look at the finished product – the installation, the painting, the sculpture, the form – forgetting to trace the trajectory that brought the creative process to fruition.

Artistic training, whether formal or informal, should not be overlooked, nor underestimated. And this is precisely what artist, educator and author Hilary Spiteri is bringing to the fore in his publication Academic Artistic Training in Early British Malta being presented at this year’s Malta Book Fair.

Ahead of the presentation of his publication, Mr Spiteri shared some thoughts concerning his research, his choice of subject and context.

“Way back, as a student I recall attending a conference at the Old University Building in Valletta. It was then I came across part of the collection of classical plaster casts exhibited in the corridors leading to the Aula Magna. It was love at first sight!”

Soon after, he was to submit a proposal for a Master’s degree at the University of Malta. After showing interest in the subject and discussing the matter with History of Art head of department Mario Buhagiar, it was decided that he would focus on a chronological and socio-political artistic understanding of the context in Malta during the early 19th century under the newly-established British rule. “This was much needed, especially to bridge Malta’s glorious past under the Order of St John and the newly-set colonisation brought forward by the British.”

The purpose of this publication is to contribute as a comprehensive study of academic training and academic artistic production in Malta during the first half of the 19th century. “This is the first publication of its kind to broaden and adjust our perspective of the artistic scenario of early British Malta and to show how, in spite of the decline in official patronage, the University, under the enlightened direction of Mgr Caruana, succeeded in providing Malta with a respectable art academy. This was not an anticlimax but a new beginning and a benchmark development in Maltese Art History.”

The book summarises the research conducted by Mr Spiteri for his MA, however, he has re-assessed and amplified some areas of my research, especially the critical analysis provided on the collection of 19th century drawings present at the National Museum of Fine Arts (NMFA) while simultaneously citing reports related to the University of Literature and education in Malta during the first half of the 19th century. He explains how, originally, he had no pretension of featuring any stunning discoveries in his account. However, “Thanks to the help of Theresa Vella and the late Dennis Vella (at the time curators of the NMFA), I came across an invaluable collection of 19th century drawings present at the museum... I believe that this was a major discovery in assessing academic 19th century art in Malta. I strongly affirm that this collection is to be listed as a national treasure.”

This publication also presents a thorough research of 19th primary sources. This resulted in the unearthing of a number of practices adopted at the University of Literature at the time. The documents reveal the establishment of the Malta School of Design, its pedagogical programme and its didactic resources. During the process, Mr Spiteri also encountered some very interesting documents affirming the establishment of a life class under the tuition of artist Michele Busuttil. “This was a 19th century milestone in Malta considering the rigid religious conservative attitude prevailing at the time,” he explained.

“I also ought to mention a very important report written by Canon Emmanuele Rosignaud in 1839, preserved at the Malta National Archives, which I brought to light. This report offers an outstanding scientific account of the education in Malta during the first half of the 19th century.”

Mr Spiteri consequently explains how this publication bridges Malta’s Knights period and the British imprint on the islands: “This scarcely-researched period has drawn the attention of a number of art historians, but most of their writings were limited to a general overview, due to the lacunae present in most of the public archives. The merit of the publication thus lies in a much needed attempt to broaden and adjust our perspective of the artistic scenario of early British Malta.” Mr Spiteri hopes that his publication will mark the beginning of a series of studies featuring Malta’s 19th century academic artistic training and the art being produced at the time. “My intention is to pursue in studying this artistic period in depth thereby contributing to the enrichment of art history in Malta.”

Presently, Mr Spiteri is dedicating his time to promoting his book locally and internationally.

Meanwhile, as an educator, he is driven by the love and passion to acquire knowledge about his country’s artistic identity, availing himself to further research the ample grounds which this field of study offers. His profession on the other hand together with his artistic activity and production compliment his research and embody his fulfilment.

• Academic Artistic Training In Early British Malta is published by Allied Publications and will be for sale at Word for Word, Castille Place, Valletta and all leading bookshops.

Academic Artistic Training in early British Malta by Hilary Spiteri - Available in all leading bookstores

2011-11-01T10:47:00.001+01:00

MIPP Collective Exhibition at Valverde, Sicily

2011-10-22T17:52:00.002+02:00

The Malta Institute of Professional Photography (MIPP) will inauguarate a photographic exhibition under the title ‘Streets of Malta’ on Friday, October 28, at Galleria Fiaf - Le Gru in Valverde(Sicily).

Giuseppe Fichera, president of Gruppo Fotografico Le Gru and Santo Mongioì, director of Galleria Fiaf - Le Gru will introduce the event. The exhibition will remain on till November 4, 2011.

Exhibited photographic works are by MIPP members: Adrian Camilleri, Alexandra Pace, Andrew Galea Debono, Anthony Grech, Astrid Pardew, George Abdilla, Hilary Spiteri, John Ambrogio, Joseph Herbert, Kevin Casha, Omar Camilleri, Owen Vella, Ruben Buhagiar, Reuben Chircop and Sergio Muscat.

ST. Art Project

2011-10-16T09:47:00.000+02:00

Recently, I have attended an interesting conference launching a new project under the branding ST.ART. This aims to bring together street art forms and art education aimed to be used as a bridge to re-establish communication between young people and local community and to strengthen the sense of common ground and interest.

The specific objective of the ST.ART project is to help young people acquire the basic life-skills and competences necessary for their personal development, for future employment and for active European citizenship. The main aim of this project is to get to know the difference between aesthetic and street art forms, graffiti and vandalism, and how different choices can lead to different consequences.

The project aims at encouraging wider arts participation, creative teaching and learning through a new integrated methodology that combines Web 2.0 and Open Sim. This new kind of platforms integration creates a Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) that aims at developing an innovative learning environment in order to:

- improve students’ transversal skills as digital, social and civic competences, sense of initiative and entrepreneurship, cultural awareness and expression;

- encourage students’ creativity through developing street art works in Open Sim environment.

The performing arts are used to carry the message and spread information in exciting visual ways that capture the attention of users.

As MELISSA HUGHES states in her STREET ART & GRAFFITI ART: DEVELOPING AN UNDERSTANDING, “Enabling students to think critically for themselves is unquestionably integral to their development as young adults, and this type of critical thinking can take place inside the art classroom. The artistic process offers infinite opportunities for creative thought, personal expression, and problem solving. When students are deeply engaged in constructing meaning by looking at art, discussing, or constructing it, they grow artistically and personally.”

Through out the two-day conference one had the opportunity to meet foreign art teachers and share ideas. Very interesting sessions were organised having the intervention of foreign scholars about the subject. Workshop 3 turned out to be an exhaustive but informative featuring Street Art in relation to art history and its proceedings. Following are the number of lectures presented:

Art assessed over time

Chair: Ms. Monica Fasciani – University of the Studies Guglielmo Marconi

Overview of art works in Malta

Mr. James M. Grimaud - artist

The WAVES project: an experience of urban culture

Ms. Simona Galizia – Delegated to the Youth Policy by the Mayor of Civitavecchia -
coordinator project Waves

Street art or graffiti?

Mr. Cedar Lewisohn – artist, writer and curator

From street art to urban art

Mr. Dario Morgante – curator of Mondo Bizzarro Gallery in Rome
Being against.

Remarks on Rebellion and Recognition through the history of art

Ms. Irene Baldriga - teacher
ANISA Associazione Nazionale Italiana Insegnanti di Storia dell’Arte

Academic Artistic Training in early British Malta | Forthcoming publication

2011-10-11T09:13:00.003+02:00

Academic Artistic Training in early British Malta

Hilary Spiteri has woven together the history of the rise and decline of the School of Design, set up by Mgr Francesco Saverio Caruana, and discusses it in a meaningful art historical context. The book summarises the research for a Master’s thesis that he defended in the Department of History of Art at the University of Malta. Its great merit is the way in which it broadens and adjusts our perspective of the artistic scenario of early British Malta and to show how, in spite of the decline in official patronage, the University, under the enlightened direction of Mgr Caruana, succeeded in providing Malta with a respectable art academy. This was not an anticlimax but a new beginning and a benchmark development in Maltese Art History.

Professor Mario Buhagiar

The book will be out on November 4, 2011. It will be available for sale from leading book stores and online from ALLIED PUBLICATIONS.

Art in danger!

2011-10-10T08:54:00.001+02:00

I was recently reading The Art Newspaper and an article entitled ‘Arts education in England threatened’ featured. This brought to my mind our educational progress and reformation and the way it is affecting the humanities, especially art, in our schools. This is something occurring globally and to a certain extent even in Malta’s educational curriculum. Art is demoted and thus being considered as an added or vocational field of study.

Anny Shaw, correspondent for The Art Newspaper brought to the light the concerns brought forward by the Cultural Learning Alliance (CLA) and Arts Council England about the eminent cut of the arts subject from secondary school education in England following the introduction of the English Baccalaureate. As stated, pupils are to be ranked according to grades scored in five core subjects being: maths, English, science, a language and either history or geography.

I believe that the arts are facing a hard time. An increasing interest in generating an empiricist and scientific frame of mind is placing aside the arts. In Malta, the arts have suffered throughout. Since the early nineteenth century, art was one of the major subjects offered in our curriculum, until it was demoted and noted as being an additional subject. Locally, students who have an artistic inclination are being deprived from having the opportunity to study the fine arts. A case in point, Malta’s highest body of education does not offer a degree in fine arts. In turn, students have to find other alternatives. They have to further their studies on a personal basis, either locally or more-likely to attend foreign universities.

One ought to ask; is this the right way to go? The pressure excerpted from the technological progress is to undermine the arts?

Being an educator and art teacher, I daily encounter a good number of students who lack initiative and creativity. Unfortunately, this is a phenomenon that is gaining momentum quite rapidly in our schools. Contrastingly, these two artistic qualities are also considered as pre-requisites when considering working in well-established technical posts. In fact technical establishments constantly show their concern that the present generation of apprentices lack the urge to create and produce something innovative in an ever-growing global entity, where everything is considered as discovered and pre-emptied.

Are we to compensate for this lack? Should art related subjects further generate and enhance the student’s innate creative abilities?

Is the philosophy of making more attractive science oriented subjects going to be fruitful? Is the shelving of art oriented subjects going to back-fire in the long run?

These are some of the issues which our educational establishments should address. I believe that our education should offer a holistic approach allowing equal opportunities for those students who opt to study the arts. Anna Culter, the director of learning at the Tate and a member of the CLA, hits the bull’s eye when saying that “if arts subjects are taught with rigour, they add values and competencies and a capacity to think imaginatively and differently, which we need in a society based on innovation. It's what we valued in the Renaissance, this wide range of knowledge that inspires innovation.” This affirmation should become a main focus in an expanding educational and pedogical conscience.

One finds it difficult to apprehend the way art is growing to become something related with our civilisation’s glorious past, the history of great social eras (Renaissance, Baroque and many others). Our curricula are growing to be more nostalgic rather than generating a sense of belonging through the application of the arts, which will eventually set the ball rolling in drafting our future.

Rotta tal-Arti 2011 - The Inauguration - September 9, 2011

2011-09-10T10:20:00.002+02:00

Resting Boats & The Fight

2nd Floor

Yesterday, I was present at Dar Partit Nazzjonalista for the inauguration of the 6th consecutive exhibition entitled ‘Rotta tal-Arti’. This exhibition, which was inaugurated by the Maltese Prime Minister Dr Laurence Gonzi, forms part of the Malta Independence festivities, which are organised annually in Malta.

This exhibition is one of the vastest exhibitions annually held in Malta under one roof. It comprises different art forms including sculpture, ceramics, paintings and mixed media.

Inauguration of the 2008 exhibition by Prime
Minister of Malta Dr Laurence Gonzi

One is also to note that this exhibition honours late famous Maltese artists. In fact a section of this exhibition is dedicated to renowned names such as Wille Apap, Ċensu Apap, Anton Agius, Emvin Cremona, Antoine Camilleri and Victor Diacono.

My works are exhibited in the second floor of the building. For further information about my works, ‘The Fight’ and ‘Resting Boats’, please follow this link: Rotta tal-Arti 2011.

Entrance to the exhibition is free and it will be open to the public until the 30th of September 2011.

Modern Artistic Sensibilities in Maltese Art - The Exhibition

2011-09-05T20:09:00.004+02:00

Recently Heritage Malta has invited me to what I consider as a major event when it comes to reassess Modern Art in Malta. I was present to the official book launch of ‘Pioneers of Modern Art in Malta’ written by Prof Joseph Paul Cassar. This event was accompanied by an exhibition entitled ‘Modern Artistic Sensibilities in Maltese Art’, also curated by Prof Cassar. The exhibition featured Modern works of art from the National Collection and it was held at the National Museum of Fine Arts, Malta.

Heritage Malta in collaboration with Prof Cassar, organised an onsite lecture, in which Prof Cassar revisited a good number of the works exhibited. His lecture was a very detailed and inspiring one.

On a personal note, during this lecture, I recalled my past days at the UOM Junior College and University of Malta when I used to attend Prof Cassar’s enriching and well-prepared lectures.

Prof Cassar, who is reputed to be one of the major scholars on Modern art in Malta, in his book, sheds light on the Maltese modern artistic sensibility and states as follows:

“History makes it apparent that modern sensibility in the realm of the visual arts in Malta is a belated experience. This does not take away the efforts brought about through a group effort mainly by the Modern Art Circle, Atelier ’56, The Modern Art Group, The Artists’ Guild, Spectrum ’69 and Vision ’74...”

Biographical note:

Prof Joseph Paul Cassar is a practising artist, art historian, art critic, curator and educator. He was a decisively inspiring academic spearheading the formation of a generation of Maltese scholars, educators and professionals in the field before moving to University of Maryland University College where he is currently Professor of Art. He is also engaged in designing dynamic online art courses for the New York Times Knowledge Network. Professor Cassar is also one of the Malta National Museum of Fine Arts' internationally acclaimed consultants and advisors.

Naqraw u Nirrimaw by Therese Pace and Hilary Spiteri

2011-09-04T08:48:00.005+02:00

In 2009 poet and author Therese Pace and myself set on the market a set of six story/poem books for children entitled Naqraw u Nirrimaw. This series is intended for children attending primary schools. All the six books are fully colour-illustrated picturing a fresh application of the aquarelle medium.

Therese proposes an innovative way of writing and promoting poetry amongst children. In fact the short stories are all intended to compose short poems, which I am pretty sure that are appealent to a young audience.

The illustrations show a high degree of creativity and immagination and all characters presented were created for the purpose of this series.

To buy book Naqraw u Nirrimaw 1
To buy book Naqraw u Nirrimaw 2
To buy book Naqraw u Nirrimaw 3
To buy book Naqraw u Nirrimaw 4
To buy book Naqraw u Nirrimaw 5
To buy book Naqraw u Nirrimaw 6

L-Għeneb Qed Jiswied u Novelli Ohra by Carmel G. Cauchi

2011-09-03T08:41:00.002+02:00

‘L-Għeneb Qed Jiswied u Novelli Ohra’ comprises eleven acclaimed short stories which were written by novelist Carmel G. Cauchi in the 1960s. The stories reflect several social aspects including family and marriage elements.

Cauchi’s outstanding literary qualities were praised at the Konkors Letterarju Farsons in 1986. In fact the winning novel of the contest, L-Għeneb Qed Jiswied, christened this published collection of novels. The examiners noted as follows:

“L-eżaminaturi qablu unanimament li n-novella L-Għeneb Qed Jiswied tal-konkorrent li ffirma Dmugħ id-Dielja tingħata l-ewwel premju. Din il-kitba tinqata’ għalkollox mill-oħrajn. Hi ġrajja meħuda mill-ħajja ta’ kuljum, miktuba b’realiżmu ħaj, u bi stil letterarju ta’ livell għoli.” (Mir-Rapport tal-Ġurija, Konkors Letterarju Farsons imniedi mill-ġurnal “Il-ħajja” fl-1986. L-eżaminaturi kienu Dr Rena Balzan, Anton Grasso u John Sciberras.)

Hilary Spiteri illustrated the front cover. It represents a semi-abstract interpretation of a vine leaf as seen against the light.

To buy book L-Gheneb Qed Jiswied u Novelli Ohra

Miraggi Lasaljani by Patrick Sammut (ed.)

2011-09-03T07:56:00.001+02:00

The book ‘Miraggi Lasalljani’ inlcudes a compilation of poems, edited by Patrcik Sammut, which was published in 2009 by De La Salle Publications, Malta. The book includes poems from four poets being Joseph Axiaq, Mario Attard, Patrick Sammut and Stephen Cachia, all of them teachers at De La Salle College, Cottonera, Malta. Also, the book includes two analytic studies on the late Bro. Henry Grech FSC and Bro. Michael Buttigieg FSC (Brothers of the La Sallian community). Both Brothers contributed, throughout their lives, to Maltese poetry and literature.

‘Miraggi Lasalljani’ comprises four sections which are illustrated by young and talented artist Hilary Spiteri. He also matched the publication with a vibrant cover design representing St John Baptist De La Salle and his love for teaching and education.

UNEASY RITUALS - Contemporary Tales from Malta by Patrick Sammut

2011-09-01T18:57:00.005+02:00

This week, a dear friend of mine and colleague, Patrick Sammut paid a visit at my studio. He came forth with his newly published book entitled ‘Uneasy Rituals – Contemporary Tales from Malta'.

The book comprises a collection of meticulously interpreted contemporary stories, which were later translated to English by Alfred Palma. This publication also includes 16 photographic works by me. This was my very first opportunity to have my photographic works published and exposed in such a powerful manner.

Sammut and I have worked constantly on this project through the very first months of this year. We have discussed and collaborated on the choice of images which were to be featured. Also, I was in charge of laying out an innovative cover-design complimented by, what I may describe as a, simplistic but effective page setting. This collaboration resulted to be a fruitful one. I proudly claim my input in this enriching and worth buying book. Thumbs up goes to Patrick Sammut for his excellent creative writing and for allowing me the opportunity to expose my photographic creativity. I highly recommend this book!

Patrick Sammut was born in Malta in 1968. He studied Maltese and Italian language and literature at the University of Malta, and later obtained a Masters Degree in Contemporary Italian Literature with a thesis on “The Novel of the Resistance Movement”. Between 1994 and 1996 he studied Italian literature and literary criticism at the Università degli Studi of Florence. He teaches Maltese and Italian Language and Literature at De La Salle College since 1992. He is vice-president of the Maltese Poets Association, editor of the poetry magazine VERSI, and coordinator of a literary page of a local and virtual weekly newspaper, Il-Gens illum. He writes poetry in Maltese, English and Italian. He is author of various publications: literary criticism, poetry and short stories for children. His poems were published in both local and foreign journals and magazines. In 2008 he participated in the “Progetto Dante” of Ravenna, together with Maltese poet and translator, Alfred Palma, and won a “Special Mention” in the Nosside international poetry contest. In 2011 he participated in the Gaeta Mediterranean Poetry Festival. He keeps in contact with other poets and writers through e-mail and has a personal blog: www.patrickjsammut.blogspot.com He is married to Rosalie and father of Andrew, Kristina and Matthew.

To buy book Uneasy Rituals

BAND PROMO PHOTOGRAPHY

2011-08-26T13:16:00.002+02:00

My Photography Gear 6 - NIKON D7000 | NIKON D3100

2011-08-25T19:22:00.001+02:00

During the past ‘My Photography Gear’ series, featured on this blog, I have introduced you to my gear, mainly lenses. I guess, now it is the time to let you all know which are the machines that I use to match the formerly featured lenses.

First of all, I am a Nikon shooter. Personally, I have nothing against other brands. Some time ago I was simply introduced to the Nikon brand and it was fantastic. Being a very conservative guy, I tend to stick by what makes me feel comfortable and by what is absolutely practical. Nikon meets such criteria.

I own two DSLR camera bodies. In fact my main body is the Nikon D7000 whereas my backup body is the Nikon D3100. They are both fantastic camera bodies which are up to optimal performance.

Nikon D7000

The Nikon D7000’s feel is awesome. It is considerably formidable, thanks to a magnesium alloy body shell and slightly thicker rubber coating on the hand grip and rear of the camera. At 16.2Mp the D7000 boasts of the second highest resolution of any Nikon DSLR. All of these pixels are packed onto a newly developed CMOS sensor. As well as extra resolution, the new sensor offers a great variety of ISO, ranging from 100-6400, expandable up to the equivalent of ISO 25,600.

The D7000's AF and metering systems are also new, and feature a significant upgrade to earlier Nikon camera bodies. The new camera boasts a 39-point AF array with 9 cross-type AF points. It also has an upgraded movie specification, up to 'full HD' - 1920x1080 resolution at 24fps. The D7000 can also maintain AF during live view and movie shooting.

Here are some key features:

16.2MP CMOS sensor
1080p HD video recording with mic jack for external microphone
ISO 100-6400 (plus H1 and H2 equivalent to ISO 12,800/25,600)
39-point AF system with 3D tracking
New 2016 pixel metering sensor
Scene Recognition System (see 2016 pixel sensor, above) aids WB/metering + focus accuracy
Twin SD card slots
3.0 inch 921k dot LCD screen
New Live View/movie shooting switch
Full-time AF in Live View/movie modes
Up to 6fps continuous shooting
Lockable drive mode dial
Built-in intervalometer
Electronic virtual horizon
Shutter tested to 150K actuations

Nikon D3100

My backup and travelling camera body is the Nikon D3100. It is considered to be Nikon's entry-level model. It is also the first Nikon DSLR to offer 1920x1080 movie recording in its range.

The Nikon D3100 offers very good image quality together with straightforward handling. Overall, the D3100 is an excellent DSLR. It has some limitations but one has to keep in mind that this body is aimed to instil the passion of photography and not to amuse the professionals.

Here are some key features:

14.2 megapixel DX-format CMOS sensor
3.0" LCD monitor (230,000 dots)
Image sensor cleaning (sensor shake)
11 AF points (with 3D tracking)
IS0 100-3200 range (12,800 expanded)
HD movies (1080p, 720p or WVGA)

Malta Institute of Professional Photography (MIPP) Malta 2011 October Convention

2011-08-12T07:25:00.001+02:00

The Malta Institute of Professional Photographers (MIPP) in collaboration with the Society Representing Professional Image Makers (SWPP) proudly announces the Malta 2011 October Convention. The three-day international convention is another event on the Malta Institute of Professional Photography’s (MIPP) agenda to highlight the institute’s fifteenth anniversary.

Prolific foreign and local guest speakers will address the audience on the 14th, 15th and 16th of October 2011. The convention is open to all professional photographers and photography enthusiasts and it will be held at the Corinthia San Gorg, hotel. Throughout the three-day convention guest speakers Faye and Trevor Yerbury, Barrie & Bev Downie, Podge Kelly & Tom Lee, Sergio Muscat, Darrin Zammit Lupi, Ronnie Muscat, Dp Attard, Joe Zammit Lucia, Lino Arrigo Azzopardi and Phil Jones will hold a number of lectures and workshops. Bookings are open on secretary.general@mipp-malta.com.

For more information regarding the Malta Institute of Professional Photography (MIPP) activity and events, please visit: www.mipp-malta.com.

My Photography Gear 5 - Tamrac Expedition 6x

2011-08-08T13:21:00.001+02:00

In this week’s blog I am going to feature my Tamrac Expedition 6x backpack. This is an awful backpack which currently holds all my equipment during photo-shoots and other daily tasks. Originally, I owned a Lowepro 202AW but as time passed by, I kept constantly evolving, equipment wise, that I had to look for an alternative.

After some time of research I decided to get hold of this Tamrac Expedition 6x backpack. This bag really suits my needs. The Tamrac Expedition 6x is a middle-sized backpack, forming part of a range of 6 backpacks, specifically design for photographers and branded by Tamrac as the ‘Expedition’ series.

Here are some technical details:

The Expedition 6x is perfect for a wide range of photo equipment. The main compartment is foam padded with foam-padded dividers to protect SLRs with lenses attached, 5-6 extra lenses, and a flash. A foam-padded front pocket holds most 14.1" laptops.
Two "wing" accessory pockets with water-resistant zippers organize and provide quick access to important accessories without disturbing the photo gear.
A tripod is carried between these pockets with Tamrac's QuickClip tripod attachment system.
An SLR with lens attached is held on 2 vertical, foam-padded dividers. A Dual-Hinge Divider System lets a 2nd SLR be carried with a lens attached. Two Windowpane-Mesh pockets organize filters and accessories.
The state-of-the-art harness system with Dual-Density Comfort Pads provides maximum carrying comfort while Air Flow Channels help keep you cool and dry during extended use.

I have used this backpack for a couple of months. Since the first time I have put it on, I find it extremely comfortable and I can fit most of my photographic equipment. The equipment is easily accessible and the weight is nicely distributed for ease of carrying. I highly recommend this backpack!

Hilary Spiteri featured on MALTALIVE.tv

2011-07-22T15:44:00.002+02:00

Thanks to Maltalive.tv, this week, I (hilaryspiteri.com) was featured on their website as Artist and Photographer. Both sections feature a detailed biographical note accompanied by a portfolio of works of art and photographic images.

Maltalive.tv was created in 2010, a newly formed enthusiastic company, together with some professional journalists, local artisan and international artists. Maltalive.tv, covers all subjects from News, Politics, Law, Arts, Fashion, Health & Beauty, Entertainment, Music, Sports, Alternative News and much much more, including upload of Videos, Photography, Music, Art, Modern Poetry and Articles on all subjects. MaltaLive.tv promotes local talent seen and unseen, whether one is a budding artist, fashion designer, visual artist, photographer or you have a passion for journalism, poetry or any other talent for that matter and wish to showcase their work.

Links:

www.maltalive.tv

www.maltalive.tv/artists/hilaryspiteri

www.maltalive.tv/photographers/hilaryspiteri

www.hilaryspiteri.com

I am Ozzy

2011-07-14T19:23:00.004+02:00

Recently, I got to read the autobiography of the legendary rock star Ozzy Osbourne entitled ‘I am Ozzy’. To tell you the truth, this was a marvellous experience! Yes, an experience. Being myself a musician, I am really into musicians autobiographies but I must admit this one blew me out. It is a very well written journal of Mr Osbourne’s life, his accounts and anecdotes and not to forget his sarcasm is hilarious. I got stuck to this 416 pager until I have read it through. It is a very well structured book presenting the rock and roll star emerging from the post second world war social poverty in Birmingham to rise up as an overwhelming rock star selling millions of album copies worldwide. Personally, I cannot say that Mr Osbourne is an idol for one main reason being the fact that I do not share his ideas about getting boozed up and blasted with narcotics but I can also understand what kind of pressure these people undergo in the showbiz. As I hear them say: “There is always a price to pay!”

Nonetheless, I suggest this book to those who would like to relax and enjoy some good reading. It is the story of a man who frankly recounts his life, his achievements and his failures. I believe it deserves a place on one’s library shelves. I highly recommend it!

Amazon’s review:

Has there ever been a more extraordinary rock-star story than Ozzy Osbourne's? Born into a life so poor that the whole family slept in one room, Ozzy endured a tough upbringing. Music was his salvation and his band Black Sabbath went on to change the music scene forever. But along with the rock and roll came the inevitable sex and drugs and Ozzy fell into a long relationship with addictive substances. The stories of Ozzy's days on the road are legendary - biting the head off a live bat, losing his best friend and writing partner Randy Rhoades in a tragic plane crash - but few know of the real heartbreak he suffered during those days of excess. In the end it was love that saved him: the love of his wife Sharon and kids Kelly, Jack and Aimee. In his highly anticipated autobiography, Ozzy comes clean: in all senses.

Rotta tal-Arti 2011

2011-07-12T08:33:00.004+02:00

Resting Boats
Watercolour
2009

This blog entry features two artistic works which, this year, I will exhibit in a collective exhibition entitled Rotta tal-Arti 2011, hosted by the Malta Nationalist Party at its mother house.

This exhibition is on for quite some years now and I am proud to say that I have been taking part in such an event from its inception. This event presents the opportunity to view paintings from Maltese Artists who have passed away during the years, established & young artists. Annually the event is inaugurated by Dr Lawrence Gonzi, Prime Minister of Malta.

This year’s Rotta tal-Arti 2011 will be on from the 9th of September to the 30th of September at Dar Partit Nazzjonalista, Triq Herbert Ganado, Pieta, Malta. Opening hours are normal business hours, that is, from 9:00 hrs to 17:00 hrs.

My two entries for this year are ‘Resting Boats’ and ‘The Fight’. Both watercolour works represent a marine theme. ‘Resting Boats’ represents the terrestrial element of boats ashore, resting and dismantled from all the paraphernalia such as sails, ropes and other necessities used at sea. The abstract geometrical composition set at the background contrasts the calm mood set in the middle ground. Both elements are reflected in the delicate flowing watercolour water accentuated in the foreground. The work presents a typical Mediterranean palette having oranges, reds and blues highlighting the composition.

The Fight

Watercolour

2008

My second entry, ‘Fight’, is an imaginary struggle between an octopus and a jelly fish. The octopus with its multitude of tentacles has its best while the jelly fish flees away. The inspiration of this work lies in the intriguing marine environment to which I am very much attracted. In fact, I present a contrast between the rugged nature of the octopus and the almost volatile nature of the jelly fish. The composition offers movement enhanced by the intertwining-stretched tentacles of the octopus. It also presents a section of marine life dominated by aquamarine colours and the beautiful reds and violets typical of marine life.

Finally, I invite you to attend this exhibition where one can appreciate and evaluate works of art from different artistic stages, from beginners to professionals. It is bound to be an event were one can enrich himself from Art in-general and its appreciation.

My Photography Gear 4 - NIKON AF Nikkor 28-80mm G lens

2011-07-08T09:34:00.002+02:00

Another tool which I acquired recently, at a relatively very cheap price, is the Nikon 28-80mm G lens. This lens is not available anymore as it was discontinued in 2006. It was a very popular lens of which Nikon set a large number of copies on the market that nowadays it can be easily acquired either new or second hand at a good price.

It was primarily introduced in 2001 as a kit lens with Nikon's cheapest film cameras. The Nikkor 28-80mm G is one of Nikon's most popular lenses from Nikon’s vast range of optics. The lens is a plastic zoom with incredibly good performance. It works very well even on higher-end camera bodies such as the Nikon D3s. It is unbelievable that Nikon at the time produced a very cheap lens with such a stunning performance.

Nikon has made many lenses with similar focal length ranges. The Nikon 28-80mm G singles out as it has an unusual maximum aperture of f/3.3 instead of the more common f/3.5. This lens is a G lens meaning that it lacks an aperture ring.

The Nikon 28-80mm G works great on just about every AF and digital Nikon camera having a built-in lens motor to drive the AF of the lens. As a matter of fact, these lenses will not autofocus on Nikon’s beginners’ camera bodies such as the D3000 and D3100. This is an AF screw type of lens.

To conclude, I must admit that this lens is a stunning piece of kit. It is inexpensive, light weighted and one can easily adapt to its ergonomics. It can be found either in a silver or black finish. One has to pay particular attention to the way such lens is handled due to the fact that it is made out of plastic. On the other hand, this lens stands out to be a winner in every occasion. I highly recommend this lens!

Senglea Marittima - Re-enactment

2011-07-02T08:37:00.002+02:00

1/1600 sec at f / 2.8, ISO 100
200 mm (70.0-200.0 mm f/2.8)

One of the most intriguing characteristics that I am so passionate about in the art of photography, since my early years of artistic training, was always the power of freezing the moment. Also complimenting this concept is the ability to tell a story through an image. In fact, what I am proposing this week is an image, which I shot a couple of weeks ago during an event entitled Senglea Marittima, which fits the afore hinted genre, being, Environmental Portraiture.

Senglea Marittima 2011, organised by the Isla Local Council, was held at some of Isla’s characteristic locations. Yearly, the council organises the festival to safeguard the town’s socio-historical and cultural heritage while raises awareness of the potential of the locality. Thanks to its fortifications, historic buildings, living history and strong maritime links, there is so much that can be discovered in Senglea.

I was present to shoot several re-enactments which were organised to match the nature of such an event. A particular image, which I really like, was taken at the end of the session when the re-enactors were about to leave the streets to take shade from the scorching Mediterranean sun. A female actress, who was wearing a typical 17th century dress, caught my attention when she was rushing up one of Senglea’s characteristical flight of steps. In front of the actress were two other male actors in the vest of 17th century pages.

The black and white rendition suits very much to this image. Compositionally, the flight of steps divides the image in three sections. Furthermore, the viewer is directed towards the actress and the pages, the former occupying the bottom tier whereas the latter occupies the upper section, by an iron rail. The dress of the actress contrasts the neutral surroundings offered by the Maltese streetscape. The intricate embroidered floral designs set the focal point as the two pages lead outwards.

My Photography Gear 3 - NIKON AF-S Nikkor 35mm F1.8G DX

2011-06-27T16:30:00.004+02:00

This week i would like to introduce you to another tool which I really recommend to every Nikon DX user. This is my AF-S Nikkor 35mm F1.8G DX. This is a great lens. Its introductory price is quite at reach and thanks to the newly introduced silent wave motor it automatically focuses on Nikon's entry-level D3000 and D3100 bodies. It's also less than half the price of the few other DX format standard primes currently on the market (such as Tokina 35mm F2.8 Macro and Sigma 30mm F1.4 EX DC HSM). With the production of this lens Nikon has managed to produce the first genuinely inexpensive fast standard prime.

Some specifications one ought to know:

35mm focal length; fast F1.8 maximum aperture
Silent Wave Motor allows autofocusing on all Nikon DSLRs
Full-time manual focus override
For DX format cameras

The lens's performance is impressive. It produces finely detailed images at all apertures, focuses quickly and accurately. Its dimensions are small and its weight is light. In particular, it's much sharper than typical DX standard zooms such as the Nikon AF-S 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 DX VR or Nikon AF-S 18-200mm F3.5-5.6 DX VR. The fast maximum aperture allows pictures to be taken hand-held in low light levels, while maintaining relatively fast shutter speeds.

Furthermore, I believe that it would be very pretentious to complain about minor flaws in a so inexpensive lens, which gives otherwise such fine results. Nikon did a great deal in addressing the lack of inexpensive fast primes for DX format DSLRs.

As it is, the 35mm F1.8G DX features a great combination of high image quality, large maximum aperture and low price. This is surely that kind of lens which deserves to be in a Nikon shooter's backpack.

hilaryspiteri.com - REVAMPED

2011-06-26T09:55:00.004+02:00

Dear friends, as you may have noticed, the website, hilaryspiteri.com, was recently revamped by the team. It includes all the artistic, design and photographic activity carried out by Hilary Spiteri. The home page, introduces the web browsers to the artist’s current activity together with a short promo, which can be easily viewed. Following, the section hilaryspiteri.com/biography offers a concise but in-depth biographical note. This section will help visitors to familiarise themselves with the artist.

Also, it offers a portfolio of artistic works and photography in two seperate sections being hilaryspiteri.com/art and hilaryspiteri.com/photography. Both portfolios feature a selection of works which represent the artist most. Another section of the website, hilaryspiteri.com/publications, presents a series of publications which are available for sale on the local market. More is to come in this section, as the team proudly announces the launching of a new publication by Hilary Spiteri to feature in the coming months.

Finally, apart from other information were one can easily get in touch with our team, the website also is a portal to other social websites such as Facebook, Flickr and Blogger, were the team is constantly present posting new material and stuff related to hilaryspiteri.com and its activity.

Photographing a Crisis - Lorenzo di Pietro

2011-06-23T12:52:00.002+02:00

On Saturday 17th June, the Malta Institute of Professional Photographers (MIPP) commemorated its 15th anniversary by organising a seminar entitled “Photographing a Crisis”. The guest speaker was Lorenzo di Pietro, a journalist who in 2010 spent almost a month in the African continent where he traced and documented the tragic trafficing of human beings and the crossing of the so called illegal immigrants from Africa towards the European continent.

A brief insight into the activity conducted by Lorenzo Di Pietro:

Lorenzo di Pietro works as a photo and investigative journalist. He deals with matters concerning politics, immigration and foreign affairs. Di Pietro collaborates with several important Italian agencies such as Rai, Corriere della Sera online, Il Fatto Quotidiano, Il Punto and Terra.

During the seminar di Pietro shared his travel experience and demonstrated a hefty portfolio of pictures and video clips documenting his sojourn in Africa. The journalist stressed a very important concept that perhaps some photographers who are keen to capture a candid image did not bear that much. In fact, he made it clear that his images where not to present an aesthetically pleasing experience. On the other hand he demonstrated that his photographic documentation was to testify his passage in the African continent. Furthermore, di Pietro clarified that majorly he was using point and shoot cameras which made it possible documenting facts in disguise without ending up being caught by the austere African authorities.

The images presented by di Pietro offered a thorough insight of what is life in Africa and the poor and devastating way people live such as in places like Niamey and Zinder. The images presented and insight of the domestic life and the intimate domestic environment. In fact, as he explained, these images were only made possible through the friendship built on trust between the inhabitants and the journalist. Di Pietro explained that the gaining of trust plays a very important role in African communities. Trusts rewarded him a free passport to document and illustrate their present state of living.

Lorenzo di Pietro also showed to those present at the seminar a series of striking video clips. Their content presented the current hard situation in the African continent. All the video clips were captured either by using a mobile phone or a point and shoot camera. As stated above, aesthetic quality was not the aim of the reportage. Contrarily, the video clips brutally demonstrate the way the immigrants are left starving and with no water in the middle of the Sahara desert. As di Pietro confirmed, these people last till about ten days until they die in the middle of nowhere because of dehydration. Their corpses are left decomposing or most probably eaten by wild animals.

During the second part of this seminar an interactive forum lead by Sergio Muscat was presented. He was accompanied by Lorenzo di Pietro, Darrin Zammit Lupi (Times of Malta), Andrew Galea Debono (Human rights lawyer) and Maj. Ivan Consiglio (AFM).

On a personal note, I got acquainted with Lorenzo di Pietro the day after during a photo-walk organised by MIPP at Senglea. I had the occasion to share some time (also humbly offering him a bottle of water) with the journalist, this time not under the African sun but in a much more pleasurable Maltese environment. On a personal note, discussing with Lorenzo, despite of my humble Italian language speaking, was an enriching experience. Di Pietro’s humble and professional character inspires all those who in a way or another encounter him.

Also, thumbs up go to MIPP for inviting such a talented individual and for this wonderful experience.

Related posts:

Links:

www.lorenzodipietro.it

My Photography Gear 2 - The Sigma 10-20mm F4-5.6 EX DC HSM

2011-06-21T14:25:00.003+02:00

Dear photograhy enthusiasts, today, i would like to introduce you with another useful tool found in my photography backpack. The Sigma 10-20mm F4-5.6 EX DC HSM is one of my favourite lenses which I recently acquired. It offers a wide angle range, ideal for landscape and architecture photography. Wayback, photographers making use of APS-C sensor cameras lacked behind in the wide-angle field. This lense, when introduced, deflected this barrier and made it possible for a wide range of photography enthusiasts to capture some stunning landscape and architecture shots.

The Sigma 10-20mm F4-5.6 EX DC HSM is a solid, well-built lens with good operational characteristics, which provides some really excellent imaging results. The front element does not extend, which makes it possible to easily attach to it a filter, either directly or through an operator. This is very relevant, as the majority of those looking for such a lens require focal range at scenic and therefore attaching a filter becomes a must. Optically, this lens is impressive. Chromatic aberration features slightly in this lens but let’s face it, this is a common problem with ultra-wide angle lenses. The images are consistently sharp and crisp. Infact such quality betrays its focal range and price tag.

Here are some technical data which one ought to know:

· A DC series lens designed exclusively for use with smaller chip APS-c or 4/3 cameras,

· HSM (Hyper-Sonic Motor) allows for fast auto focus speeds & quiet shooting and is capable of full-time manual operation,

· Three aspherical lens elements offer excellent correction for distortion and Three SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass elements employed for effective compensation of colour aberration,

· Internal Focusing System allows the convenient use of a polarizing filter for creative effects & improves the optical performance of the lens at various distances,

· Awarded the TIPA award, best consumer lens in Europe 2006.

This is a decent lens which streches the ability of photography enthusiats to a limit of 10mm wide-angle-view at a decent price. I strongly recommend this lens!

Men at Work - Environmental Portraiture Photography

2011-06-20T18:19:00.003+02:00

1/640 sec at f / 5.0. ISO 100

92 mm (70.0 - 200.0 mm f / 2.8)

The photograph that I am proposing today is a stunning shot which I took earlier this month. Despite of being a sunny day, it was quite hazy. In fact the available natural light conditions offered a very subtle soft light of which I took advantage.

There was no particular setup set prior to this shot. The people frozen in this image were not posing for the shot. I was simply stand by round the corner to capture a moment in Malta's rural and conservative countryside. Unfortunately, such moments reminiscent of Malta's rural past are nowadays becoming extinct. The image says it all! Two old men sitting next to an old fuel pump who are accompanied by a mongrel. Both men bear the signs of the ephemeral passing of time. Wrinkles feature boldly and the white feathery hair captures the viewers attention. Both men are sitting tranquilly but the dog is the one which is reacting to its environment.

Compositionally, the work can be divided in two sections, mainly the upper section dominated by an umbrella and local domestic architecture, whereas the lower section is dominated by the afore mentioned individuals. The pump set on the right hand side of the composition deserves a mention. Being itself a museum piece, one of the very first fuel pumps to feature in modern Malta, still withstanding the natural elements and the passing of time.

This black and white image is bound to remain one of my favorites. Capturing of such an image immortalized what will in few years time be considered as past.

My Photography Gear 1 - Sigma 70-200mm F2.8 EX DG Macro HSM II

2011-05-30T20:07:00.003+02:00

Another section in my blog, that I would like to introduce you to, is the gear that I use to capture my pictures. I am a serious enthusiast and my gear has some limitations, the major one being budget. On the other hand, on a very limited budget, one can get hold of superb third party brands equipment which does very good for the price being paid.

Today I would like to share my views on the Sigma 70-200mm F2.8 EX DG Macro HSM II. Here are some technical data which one ought to know:

The Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 II EX APO Macro HSM telephoto zoom lens has a large maximum aperture of f/2.8 which remains constant throughout the zoom range, an improved optical performance, macro capabilities, and is optimized for digital SLR cameras. It also features super multi-layer coating, which reduces flare and ghosting.

This Macro lens has improved macro capability, with a minimum focusing distance of 39.4" (100 cm) and maximum magnification of 1:3.5. All zooming and focus movement is achieved internally, allowing for a constant length and great resistance to dust and moisture. It comes rendered in a hard coated, baked black EX crinkle finish.

The Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) ensures a silent, high-speed AF function as well as full-time manual focusing capability for Sigma, Canon, and Nikon mount lenses.

Apart from all the technical data available in several written reviews posted on the web, I would like to share some pros and cons which I have personally experienced when using this camera lens.

This lens is a major upgrade from a low budget telephoto zoom lens having as its minimum aperture of f/3.5. It is a heavier lens, the mechanism is all laid in the interior of the barrel which will avoid infiltration of dust or matter. The tripod ring of the lens has some awesome mechanics which facilitates the handling of the lens and camera body, mostly when shooting sports and making use of a monopod. Being an f/2.8 lens, it focuses very fast and it does it very quietly. The performance of this lens is superb especially for wedding events as the photographer remains unnoticed when focusing and composing his shots. The focusing rings are very subtle and at reach. The rubber material added to the lens barrel does their job very well and they ensure a tight and approachable experience. Despite of its dimensions the lens fits nicely to a wide range of DSLR camera bodies, including beginners camera body types, such as my Nikon D3100 to more advanced camera bodies such as Nikon's D700.

In practise the Sigma 70-200mm F2.8 EX DG Macro HSM II does a very good job. Considering the limited budget which this lens costs (you can easily get a second-hand version of this lens for 550 Euro) it delivers very well. Several complaints noted on the web specify that this lens is sweet at 200mm. I strongly agree with statement. On the other hand, I still believe that Sigma has given the opportunity for beginners and enthusiasts to invest and get hold of a fast and affordable telephoto lens. For those who are not earning their bread out of photography and who simply enjoy the art of capturing a fleeting moment, this is the way to go. Personally, I avail my self of post processing by adding some sharpening layers to counterbalance the lack of sharpness when focused at 200mm. Regarding optics and colour rendition, I find this lens to be a decent third party item which honours merit. When captured at a correct exposure colours kick. This lens is capable of immortalizing some of the most beautiful chromatic representation which one could imagine to capture.

On a final note, I highly recommend this lens for those out there who are into photography and would like to get a decent, fast and silent telephoto zoom lens. This is the ideal lens for enthusiasts hitting the streets on a budget, who are not after collecting expensive and phallic equipment, but who are after freezing passionately the fleeting moment.

Military Mtarfa - Re-enactment

2011-05-29T10:11:00.025+02:00

1/1600 sec at f / 2.8. ISO 200

200 mm (70.0 - 200.0 mm f / 2.8)

Last Sunday, I paid a visit at the Military Mtarfa re-enactment event organised by the Mtarfa Local Council. This was a very interesting event as it featured a collection of First and Second World War memorabilia including cars, motorcycles and all sorts of objects related to that period.

What I found really interesting about the event, were the members from the Battlefront group who were wearing authentic World War II costumes. This was a very good occasion to smart out of my Tamrac backpack, my Nikon and Sigma 70-200 f2.8. I have to say that the actors were very friendly and approachable. This resulted to be a fruitful experience of which I have captured a couple of stunning shots.

The shot that I am presenting today is that of a female actress who was sitting in a typical World War II car. What I really like of this image is its composition and the way I managed to freeze the moment. I have chosen to place the subject on the left hand side of the image so as to balance the blurred horizontals on the right. One may also notice that the image is very tightly framed by the visor of the car. This adds more weight on the opposite side of the subject. It is important to state that the image was not cropped during the post processing stage. This is a very important personal issue as I pertain to the non-cropping school of thought. My ideas about composition and the art of framing an image is that of capturing the shot and composing it primarily out of the box so as not to modify it at a later stage. Cropping may result to effect the resolution of the image.

I may also add that the black and white chromatic rendition to this image suits very much the subject and gives it a faithful adaptation towards the moment being re-enacted.

On a final note, it is vital to state that what makes this image a stunning capture is its composition. Composition is a very important factor in photography which one has not to miss to the benefit of other elements.

HILARY SPITERI - art | design | photography

2011-05-28T12:39:00.004+02:00

Dear all,

After quite a number of months away form blogging, finally, I have decide to start adding posts related to art, design and photography. I consider this to be my new challenge for the coming months. These posts will include my experiences mainly related to my photographic activity together with other posts related to the world of art.

Recently, I have also uploaded my new website www.hilaryspiteri.com which offers a very good in site of my activity as an artist, photographer and illustrator.

Feel free to subscribe to my blog, post comments and questions regarding my activity.

Thanks for reading and cya around!