Local Illustrator To Publish ‘Tberfil’: A Book On Maltese Vehicular Decoration In The 20th Century

Local illustrator Steven Scicluna has announced the forthcoming publication of Tberfil: The Art of Maltese Vehicular Art in the 20th Century, set to be released on 9th November.

“This has been a long time coming, but I am beyond pleased to finally share this work,” Scicluna said. The book represents over a year of dedicated effort and the culmination of 18 years of research, conducted both in Malta and abroad. The project began while classic Maltese buses were still in service, and the research remains relevant as tberfil the unique Maltese style of decorative bus art continues to leave its mark on the islands’ streets.

Tberfil traces the origins of the art form from the early 20th century, documenting its evolution over a hundred years and exploring how it absorbed various styles and influences. The book features pioneering tberfilisti such as Alvaro Camilleri, as well as later masters including Bastjan Darmanin and Joe Farrugia, showcasing the diverse elements that define the art from lettering and pinstriping to ornamentation and detailed driver cabins.

The official launch will take place at the Malta Book Festival on Sunday 9 November from 12:00 to 13:00, where Scicluna and Joe Farrugia will hold an informal discussion on the history and future of tberfil. Copies of the book will be available for purchase at the event.

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