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‘Order in Chaos’ as seen through the lens of Martin Agius

Mar 25 2023 Share

‘Order in Chaos’: A quirky dimension of light, colour and contrast — as seen through the lens of Martin Agius

A visual journey through everyday life that juxtaposes past and current trends is brought to vivid life by Martin Agius’ latest exhibition entitled Order in Chaos.

Agius has established himself amongst Malta’s foremost photo-journalists and his evident passion for the aesthetic aspects of social life – a hands-on experience brought to light through his latest collection of street photography – is expressed through a quintessentially-Maltese viewpoint with more than a passing nod to the odd feature that’s both quirky and unpredictable.

Suffice it to say that this particular set of photographs includes some veritable throwbacks, depicted by whimsical local scenes that are balanced out by much more modern takes as seen through abstract prisms. A typical example is the new Parliament Building by Renzo Piano bathed in surreal light and which, conversely throws up some distinctive shadows (in typical chiaroscuro) that underline the contrasting imagery.

Martin Agius has won a spate of prestigious awards through his highly personalised interpretation of the visual content at hand – both local and foreign and which is given a unique perspective and focus. Meanwhile, Agius manages to display a rare dexterity and insight into the most complex of presentations and which has been recognised by the most discerning critics in the field of photography.

Agius has perfected his own style over the years and is now passing on his expertise to other budding photographers who attend his regular courses. Exercises that train one’s eye and mind and which, above all, are meant to capture the very essence of street life and all its colourful characters that flit in and out of any given scene.

This photojournalist’s first public presentation harks back to 2016 and when he hit the ground running with an exhibition entitled ‘Malta Street Life’ with a subsequent take on the very same theme (‘City Life’) following hard on its heels a year later.

The years 2020 and 2021 brought him unparalleled success during which he further showcased his talents at one of the most prestigious international photography events that’s based in Japan and which proved a veritable milestone in his career.

Martin Agius has also had the opportunity to display his works on similar occasions in Egypt, Greece, Italy and the UK – while also distinguishing himself through an exclusive (solo) exhibition at Avantech’s (Canon Shop) company premises.

The overall relevance of these standout features was eloquently highlighted by Mariella Pisani Bencini – an undisputed authority on local culture – who, in her introductory speech, emphasised Agius’s evident passion for street-life that’s expressed so evocatively through his roving lens.

When all is said and done, ‘Order in Chaos’ weaves a rich tapestry of colour and light through a set of 14 photographs which capture the hitherto unseen spirit of situations that do not normally merit a second glance. A presentation which also sneaks in an unexpected tinge of darkness that helps create a sensory overload and which works on the mind’s eye exactly as intended.

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Get ready for the warmest day of the year yet: Maltese Islands set to enjoy a day of sunshine

Mar 25 2023 Share

The Maltese Islands are set to experience the hottest day of the year yet, with sunny conditions forecasted throughout the day.

According to weather experts, tomorrow is likely to be one of the nicest days since the start of the year.

The temperature is expected to soar, with highs reaching 21 degrees Celsius, making it a perfect day to head outdoors and soak up some sun.

The UV index is predicted to be at 8, indicating very high levels of ultraviolet radiation. Therefore, it is essential to take appropriate precautions to protect against the harmful effects of the sun’s rays. Remember to wear sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses to avoid any potential sun damage.

While the temperature may be high, the wind will only be at force 3, making it a relatively calm day. These weather conditions are expected to attract many people to the outdoors, with plenty of individuals expected to make the most of this beautiful weather.

Whether you are planning a relaxing day on the beach or a leisurely stroll in the countryside, be sure to take full advantage of tomorrow’s excellent weather. With such pleasant conditions forecasted, it is an opportunity not to be missed.

So, grab your sunscreen, a hat, and some water, and enjoy a day in the sun!

photo source: Joseph Galea

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Grindr warns users of fake Police accounts on their app

Mar 25 2023 Share

Grindr, the leading gay dating app in the world, has cautioned its users about the purported use of bogus accounts by the police in Egypt to trap individuals seeking dates through the app.

This alert follows a recent surge in the number of arrests of LGBTQ+ individuals over the weekend.

The warning message from Grindr states that the Egyptian police are actively apprehending gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals on digital platforms.

The police are reportedly employing counterfeit accounts and have even taken over the accounts of genuine members of the community who have already been detained and had their phones confiscated.

As a result, Grindr is advising its users to exercise additional caution both online and offline, even with accounts that may have seemed legitimate in the past.

At present, the Egyptian authorities have not issued any statement regarding the alleged entrapments.

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Malta set to face reigning European champions Italy at Ta’ Qali tomorrow 

Mar 25 2023 Share

Malta are set to play Italy at the National Stadium Ta’ Qali on Sunday in the UEFA Euro Qualifiers.

In 17 head-to-head encounters between the two sides, Italy have won 14 games and drawn three.

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Malta come into this game on the back of a 2-1 loss to Blagoja Milevski’s North Macedonia in the league. Second-half goals from Napoli midfielder Elif Elmas and Burnley winger Darko Churlinov secured the win for North Macedonia. Midfielder Yannick Yankam scored the goal for Malta.

Italy, on the other hand, lost 2-1 to 10-man England in their most recent game. First-half goals from West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice and Tottenham Hotspur striker Harry Kane sealed the win for Gareth Southgate’s England, who had Manchester United left-back Luke Shaw sent off late in the second half. Tigre striker Mateo Retegui scored the goal for Italy.

Before finally falling to England on Thursday, Italy had won each of their previous 14 qualification games and were unbeaten in 40. Having also beaten Malta in all four past meetings without conceding a goal, Italy will expect to get off the mark with a first win of the campaign.

The 16,000 seats at Ta’ Qali National Stadium have all been sold, with tickets selling for up to €70 at the west stand and €35 at the Millennium Stand. Cheaper €20 tickets at the stadium’s south end have been sold out since January.

Malta and Italy will both be holding a press conference later on today before holding a final training session before tomorrow’s encounter.

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