The Malta International Contemporary Art Space (MICAS) reached a significant milestone in its journey by inaugurating its first art exhibition, “What is to become is already here,” by the renowned British contemporary artist, Conrad Shawcross, right on the MICAS site. The event unfolded against the backdrop of the historic military architecture of the Ospizio, marking the launch of the fifth edition of the MICAS International Art Weekend in 2023.

In his speech at the inauguration, Minister for National Heritage, Arts, and Local Government, Owen Bonnici, lauded the transformation of a large area of land in Floriana. Once abandoned and inaccessible, this area, now home to MICAS, is being returned to the public through culture. Minister Bonnici emphasized that the project is well underway, with an expected completion and inauguration in 2024.

“This exhibition allows us to admire not only excellent art within the spaces of the MICAS site, but also the spaces themselves, which are equally impressive,” Minister Bonnici expressed. “The Government’s substantial investment in cultural infrastructure strengthens our cultural sector and makes historical heritage and art more accessible to the public. Additionally, it opens doors to new international relationships and creates a unique cultural tourist market.”

Phyllis Muscat, the Chairperson of MICAS, shared her vision for the entity, which aims to develop a strong and diverse international program, showcasing exceptional contemporary art and artists. She explained that MICAS has made significant progress this year, thanks to investments from the European Funds for Regional Development and national funds, with gallery construction progressing rapidly. “We look forward to officially opening MICAS next year,” said Mrs. Muscat.

Conrad Shawcross, the contemporary artist behind the exhibition, recalled his initial visit to Malta as a guest of MICAS, highlighting the immediate connection he felt with Malta’s history and geography. In his speech, Shawcross detailed how he drew inspiration from the MICAS site’s unique location, its historical significance, proximity to the sea and marina, and the breathtaking views from its elevated floors.

MICAS worked closely with Shawcross to curate the exhibition, featuring his artworks throughout the site. “What is to become is already here” comprises three distinct bodies of work and alludes to the essence of MICAS itself – a prelude to the future as it readies for its official opening while existing within the historical fortifications that have stood for centuries.

MICAS further enhanced its contemporary art collection with the acquisition of “The Dappled Light of the Sun (Formation I)” by Conrad Shawcross. This striking structure, composed of around 1,600 tetrahedrons, was inspired by the perpetual motion of the natural world. It will join the works of Ugo Rondinone and Cristina Iglesias in the MICAS permanent collection, aligning with MICAS’ mission to democratize art and ensure that these masterpieces are accessible to all.

The Creative Committee of MICAS, led by Edith Devaney, collaborated closely with the artist to transform this event into reality. The result is a collection of Conrad Shawcross’s works that interact with and explore the historical landscape of the Ospizio.

The MICAS International Art Weekend 2023 attracted a remarkable international audience and continued with a lecture by the renowned American Director of Museums, Timothy Rub. The lecture centered on the responsibility of museums to support continuity and change, followed by a panel discussion moderated by Artistic Director Edith Devaney. The panel included Timothy Rub, Waqas Wajahat, Conrad Shawcross, and Dr. Georgina Portelli. The weekend’s events demonstrated MICAS’s commitment to promoting contemporary art and fostering international connections within the art world.

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