Architecture & Design

20 | Architecture & Design L uginsLand of Art, formerly known as Villa Luginsland has opened its door to the public for the first time after many years of neglect. Envisioned by Omenaa Mensah, Polish philanthropist, art lover, and the founder of OmenaArt Foundation, the project breathed new life into one of the most significant architectural gems on the island. On the 15th of March it has opened its doors for the preview of the collective exhibition 'Space & Time', Curated by a renowned Slovakian set designer and architect - Boris Kudlička, the exhibition showcases the works of esteemed Maltese and Polish artists and encompass both site specific installations which have been created in line with the curatorial concept and the historic reference of the site, as well as a curated selection of works from pre- existing series by the artists. The visual narrative establishes an intriguing dialogue between Neo- Renaissance architecture and Contemporary Art, aiming to create an intersection between the past and present through intercultural exchange. The villa is currently still under construction, with the possibility to visit its exclusive insights during the Educational Programme launched in March, which will extend until the end of May. About Villa Luginsland Villa Luginsland, founded by Baron Maximilian Tucher von Simmelsdorf, is a unique 19th-century residential palace, considered to be one of the most magnificent buildings in Malta. Until the beginning of World War I, the building was used as quarters of the German Consul General in Malta and an open house where numerous cultural events took place. The Grade I Historic Property situated in Rabat has once hosted such luminaries as Wilhelm II, King Edward VII, amongst others. For many years, the villa has remained untouched, until today, when it finally regains its well-deserved recognition. This architectural gem was designed by a local architect Francesco Zammit, who was entrusted with the creation of the project by Baron, and used a style that was a combination of contemporary trends containing elements of Italian, French and British architecture. Surprisingly, the style of Villa Luginsland does not correspond with any other residential property projects by Zammit, in fact, it is significantly different and exceptional. This observation may indicate that the Baron was involved in the designing process himself. The residence contains numerous spatial reference points creating a network of intersecting axial symmetries. The geometry of the building and craftily designed optical concept might be connected to Baron's intricate knowledge of not only astrology, mathematics, and physics, but also the masonic philosophy which promotes spiritual development and alliance of religions, nationalities and opinions. villa luginsland reiMagined: exploring luginsland of art V i l l a L u g i n s l a n d , n o w L u g i n s L a n d o f A r t , o p e n s i t s d o o r s a f t e r y e a r s o f n e g l e c t , s h o w c a s i n g a c a p t i v a t i n g b l e n d o f N e o - R e n a i s s a n c e a r c h i t e c t u r e a n d c o n t e m p o r a r y a r t . W i t h a n e d u c a t i o n a l p r o g r a m m e a n d r e s t o r a t i o n e f f o r t s u n d e r w a y , i t p r o m i s e s t o b e a h u b o f a r t i s t i c e x c h a n g e a n d i n n o v a t i o n . Omenaa Mensah Space & Time Exhibition

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