The Maltese carnival as seen by the eyes of a German photographer
An exhibition of photos of Maltese carnival celebrations by a German photographer Creative Spacein Valletta.
It features photographs taken at carnival workshops, details of elaborate costumes, dance rehearsals, carnival trailers and various carnival enthusiasts such as Paul Curmi ‘The Pampalun’ and the weeping Jean-Paul Bonnett, -Chippy ‘, who died while working. on a float for the 2019 summer carnival. It also includes several candid photos taken during the Valletta celebrations.
Frank Kirchner loved Malta as a tourist in 1989 and, since 2016, has been visiting the island five or six times a year. His photography projects are exclusively about Malta, focusing mainly on carnival and Valletta.
“Carnival is one of the flagships of Malta’s cultural heritage”
The title of his exhibition, From the Eyes of a Friendreflects Kirchner’s commitment to the island and its cultural heritage.
“I want to tell the whole story of the carnival: with a genuine look – without a mask! For the past six years, carnival enthusiasts and participants have opened their doors to me. It was a great experience, which moved me to continue with my photography projects in Malta, ”says Kirchner.
He adds that he feels appreciated for his work through the “number of cordial chats” he has had with visitors to his exhibition. He says that the Maltese feel touched by his photos, which “catch their soul”, while the tourists are hit by the costumes and the trailers.
However, Kirchner would like to present the carnival as much more than just a colorful display of chaos.
“Carnival is one of the hallmarks of Malta’s cultural heritage,” he says.
“I want to contribute to a change in mentality and make the public, including tourists, more aware of its importance.”
The exhibition, led by Antoine Farrugia, is part of Malta Carnival 2022, organized by Festivals Malta in collaboration with Creative Space.
From the Eyes of a Friend go in Creative Space in Valletta until March 6 The cultural center is also presenting an exhibition of carnival costumes in the atrium. For more information, visit www.kreattivita.org.
Freelance journalism costs money. Times of Malta Support for price of coffee.
Support us