LuginsLand of Art launches the collective exhibition ‘Space & Time’ and Educational Programme inviting the audience to witness the ongoing restoration of this historical, architectural gem in Malta.
The exhibition is open for visitors during the Educational Programme and on the selected days: May 20th-24th and May 27th-30th 12:00pm – 3:00pm.
On March 15th, LuginsLand of Art, formerly known as Villa Luginsland, held an exhibition preview called “Space & Time.” The exhibition was curated by Boris Kudlička, a renowned set designer and architect from Slovakia. The event also marked the launch of a new concept to create dedicated spaces for the artistic community within the Villa, which is currently undergoing restoration.
Ministers Owen Bonnici and Minister Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi graced the occasion, witnessing the restoration endeavours and visionary aspirations of the villa. The project is supported by OmenaArt Foundation, founded by Omenaa Mensah, Polish philanthropist, businesswoman, and art collector, who welcomed esteemed guests and artists to the villa.
“For the first time, we are happy to open the doors to LuginsLand of Art . My team and I have been working on this unique project for many months. We are excited to share the beginning of something truly special. I have always had a profound admiration for historic edifices. I am extremely excited to breathe new life into one of the most significant historical sites in Malta and provide an opportunity to share a dedicated area to the artistic community in the future” – says Omenaa Mensah.
Joanna Popiol, Director of LuginsLand of Art, underscored the meticulous conservation efforts and fruitful collaboration with the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage, highlighting the commitment to preserving and honouring the villa’s rich heritage and legacy.
The front part of the villa was dedicated to its long history and showcasing the ongoing restoration works, research and efforts in preserving the historical aspects. The inaugural exhibition ‘Space & Time’ curated by a renowned Slovakian set designer and architect – Boris Kudlička with curatorial collaboration of Maria Galea and Joanna Szulc, showcases the works of renowned Maltese and Polish artists and encompass both site specific installations which have been created in line with the curatorial concept and the historic reference of the site, as well as a curated selection of works from pre-existing series by the artists. The visual narrative establishes an intriguing dialogue between Neo-Renaissance architecture and Contemporary Art, aiming to create an intersection between the past and present through intercultural exchange.
“The main inspiration for the exhibition is the villa itself, its profound history and marvellous architecture. We invited renowned Maltese artists to create site-specific works that represent the dialogue with the space and temporal dimensions of the villa. I am very happy with the diversity of the collection as the artists utilise different mediums and each of them presents their own unique perspective to the subject.“ – says the curator Boris Kudlička
Cultural Manager Maria Galea underlines the gratitude felt as Maltese citizen in appreciating the work being conducted to both preserve and revive such a magnificent historical space. “It is admirable that Luginsland of Art and OmenaArt Foundation are inviting artists to be part of it, creating an important intercultural exchange.”
Featured Artists:
Mario Abela, Victor Agius, Matthew Attard, Norbert Attard, John Paul Azzopardi, Austin Camilleri, Monika Falkus, Antoine Farrugia, Maurycy Gomulicki, Nicolas Grospierre, Michał Jackowski, Ida Karkoszka, Lia Kimura, Marcin Maciejowski, Karol Palczak, Janek Simon, Nikola Vudrag, Xawery Wolski, Jakub Julian Ziółkowski
Site specific works
The commissioned site-specific art installations at LuginsLand of Art feature the works of Maltese artists Matthew Attard, Victor Agius, Mario Abela, and Antoine Farrugia. These pieces integrate history, nature, and architecture, with the respect to villa’s profound history. Each artist brings a unique perspective to their work, aiming to blend with the villa’s architectural and archaeological elements. From Matthew Attard’s digital landscapes to Victor Agius’s sculptures, these works evoke a dialogue between the past and present. Mario Abela’s installation prompts viewers to reflect on their impact on the world, while Antoine Farrugia’s use of Maltese limestone pays homage to the villa’s architecture. Together, these pieces form an intriguing display of artistic expression, inviting visitors to explore the intersection of time and space at LuginsLand of Art.
Educational Programme
Alongside the exhibition, LuginsLand of Art is also organising the educational programme launched on the 23rd of March with the panel ‘Art & Architecture’, followed by the session ‘Art & Archaeology’ in April. The programme encompasses 5 discussion panels and workshops, each delving into various facets of art and its relationships, including architecture, archaeology, community, and artistic legacy. These panels feature distinguished Maltese and international artists, art historians, and art professionals who bring their perspectives on historical, social, and anthropological issues to the fore. The programme aims to foster an environment for discussion and offers an opportunity to explore the villa’s ongoing construction, restoration, and preservation efforts. The programme will extend until the end of May.
The Educational Programme:
Art & Architecture – 23th March
Art & Archaeology – 6th April
Art & Conservation – 4th May
Art & Technology – 18th May
Art & Legacy – 31st May
About Omenaa Mensah
Omenaa Mensah is a Polish philanthropist, businesswoman, art collector, and founder of OmenaArt Foundation. With her rich experience, Omenaa leads worldwide projects and initiatives in the realms of design, architecture and art. She passionately invests in emerging artists, bolstering their growth and creativity. Motivated by her deep-seated love for art, she takes on ambitious endeavours aimed at conserving and rejuvenating historical sites. Her expertise has garnered accolades from stalwarts in architecture and design, including luminaries like Boris Kudlička, Bruno Moinard, Alessandro La Spada, and Gio Pagani. Omenaa is also devoted to emphasising the importance of social responsibility within cultural realms. Her foundation is engaged in philanthropic activity, such as the coordination of the Grand Charity Auction TOP CHARITY, one of the most prestigious philanthropic events in Europe that promotes the best Polish and international artists. The initiative has been recognised and selected by Luxury Lifestyle Awards which celebrate the best luxury services all over the world.
Photo Credits: Brian Grech
Links:
LuginsLand of Art website
Educational Programme
Registration to view the exhibition
LuginsLand of Art Facebook
LuginsLand of Art Instagram
OmenaArt Foundation website
For more information contact: alicja@villaluginsland.com
Art Style | Art & Culture International Magazine 