Artist’s Jean Paul Sofia Dedicated Painting Wins At Malta Biennale

A painting dedicated to Jean Paul Sofia and his mother, Isabelle Bonnici, has won an award at maltabiennale.art.

The artwork, “Deposizione,” by Italian artist Teresa Antignani, received the prize for the best work in the main pavilion at the inaugural event, held at Verdala Palace, Times of Malta reported.

An international jury of experts selected the winner. Antignani, an artist, researcher, and activist, invited Bonnici to the ceremony, stating, “I did not win. Her courage won.”

The painting, an oil on canvas, portrays a modern deposition scene amidst construction site rubble, with cranes replacing crosses and a grieving mother holding her deceased child.

Antignani became aware of Jean Paul Sofia during a visit to Malta in November, after seeing his banner in front of parliament. Moved by his story and Bonnici’s fight for justice, she created the artwork. Bonnici saw the final piece in May and described the experience as “an overwhelming feeling” that brought tears to her eyes, feeling proud that her son’s story inspired the artwork.

#MaltaDaily