‘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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