The exhibition aims to honour the human form from both technical and artistic perspectives while also encouraging contemplation and awareness of daily life issues, fostering empathy with others.

Throughout history, the human body has been a captivating subject in art, from ancient cave paintings to contemporary works. Various forms of art, including body art, performance art, and endurance art, highlight the human form as either a medium or subject. Artists such as Orlan and Marina Abramović have pushed boundaries by engaging in physical alterations or extreme challenges, blurring the lines between art and life. Despite often sparking controversy, depictions of the nude human body remain fundamental in artistic training.

The artworks by the Maltese artists encompass many years and showcase their distinctive styles. Dalli’s large-scale nude paintings aim to capture the essence of the human figure, often set against stylised landscapes to create surreal compositions. Tanti’s compositions juxtapose stark backgrounds with intricate contexts, exploring narrative and philosophical themes while oscillating between nudity and nakedness to evoke discomfort and reflection. Scerri’s sculptures provoke contemplation on life’s absurdities, featuring figures typically nude or minimally clothed and carrying symbolic props that convey profound narratives.

Curated by Melanie Erixon, the exhibition runs until  27 April  at Museo Santa Chiara, Corso Vittorio Emanuele, Noto, Sicily.

Check out the event page for more information.