Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1414163
maltatoday | SUNDAY • 26 SEPTEMBER 2021 6 ART Spazju Kreattiv launches new programme season for 2021 SPAZJU Kreattiv has launched its new season for 2021 | 2022, continuing to consolidate its role as a catalyst for all forms of expression in Malta and Gozo. In keeping with its vision of being 'Il- Qalba tal-Kreattività' (The Heart of Creativity), this hybrid programme will contin- ue to offer our local and inter- national audiences with an in- creasingly diverse season built upon a strategy that is based on the three pillars of artistic ex- cellence, community outreach and internationalisation. This year, the season comprises over 550 events, 350 collaborators, 17 creative forms with a consolida- tion of established endeavours as well as new exciting ventures. The diversity of projects will reflect many socio-political as- pects both locally and globally, providing various profession- al opportunities for seasoned and emerging artists, making Spazju Kreattiv an incubator for creative encounters and exchanges. With a selection of new writing for the theatre in the round, this season al- so includes a series of art ex- hibitions, an immensely rich arthouse cinema programme and a new series of music con- certs, this programme will be for anyone and everyone. After a year hiatus, artists' residencies will also make a return. These artists will pro- vide an international outlook on Malta and Gozo, while also promoting social immersion with local communities. This direct engagement will also be reflected through other spe- cialised programmes including events for senior citizens to promote more social inclusion, a diverse range of events for families and children to enjoy together under the umbrella of ŻiguŻajg, and a focus on in- itiatives which will cater for a younger demographic mostly teenagers and young adults. Following last year's success- ful impact, the Spazju Kreat- tiv digital experience will re- turn with a series of curated events meant to enhance the programme's accessibility. Through the presentation of more online features such as, video on demand options, streamed discussions, pod- casts, virtual tours and online galleries, the presented pro- gramme aims to enhance ar- tistic awareness and encourage more public involvement. In this framework, the newly re- vamped website will also serve as a platform to continue champi- oning the entity's legacy with an accessible digital archive of past projects and upcoming ones. During his intervention, the Honourable Minister for National Heritage, Arts and Local Government José Herre- ra said that the pandemic made people realise the importance of the arts and culture. Spaz- ju Kreattiv's digital presence throughout the pandemic was a reaction to limitations which in the end resulted in an outburst of ideas from the creative com- munity. Herrera adds, "I agree that it is a very challenging time for those who are trying to find ways to put their talent and capabilities on a stage or in an art gallery, to create connec- tions and experiences that can be shared with an audience. It is also a promising time for the artists and creatives, the time is now ripe for them to do what they do best by getting their work out there by being crea- tive, innovative and expressive to connect with other people." The Chairman of Fondazzjo- ni Kreattività Rupert Cefai said that throughout the pandemic, Spazju Kreattiv kept going even when all odds were against it. "Using the latest technologies at our disposal allowed us to continue engaging with various communities through different art forms," explained Cefai. As the centre moves on into its new phase, our aim remains to act as a catalyst in the devel- opment of new creative prac- tices, to promote opportunities and help in the development of future artists within the Mal- tese creative fora. "Another year of challenges is behind us, and it's with great pleasure that we are now able to present Spazju Kreattiv's new artistic programme for 2021 | 2022 which boasts many talented artists across many creative forms", stated Cefai. In his second year as Artis- tic Director of Spazju Kreat- tiv, Daniel Azzopardi added that this programme reflects a bolder and a progressive ap- proach by being a source of in- spiration and creative empow- erment. Azzopardi continued by stating "We are committed towards continuing to support the creative community, whilst encouraging the general public to actively participate in the artistic experience. With this vision firmly in mind, we seek to build upon our established strategic pathway to present an eclectic programme that champions artistic excellence, community outreach and in- ternationalisation." Azzopardi adds that with the persisting pandemic crisis, Spazju Kreat- tiv will seek to continue to be a source of hope to the local cre- ative sector, and remain a key stakeholder in championing the crucial role of arts and cul- ture for the wellbeing of society in Malta and abroad. The Spazju Kreattiv Pro- gramme 2020-2021 is found here and watch the promo here.