Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1519725
maltatoday | SUNDAY • 28 APRIL 2024 4 ALMANAC My essentials CHRISTOPHER SALIBA Artist After qualifying as an art educator in 1997, I was awarded a four-year scholarship at the Accademia di Belle Arti in Perugia, where I focused on contemporary art. Upon returning, I settled in Gozo and resumed teaching while continuing my daily studio practice. Over the years, I've had several solo exhibitions, both locally and internationally. 5 1. Book 2. Film 3. Internet 4. Music 5. Place I have a special fondness for Depeche Mode, as their mu- sic is closely tied to my youth years. I simply love their unique blend of electronic music with poignant lyrics and emotive vocals. Their ability to evolve while staying true to their roots kept them relevant over decades. In my opinion, Violator, released in the 1990s, remains their best album. Tracks like Enjoy the Silence and Personal Je- sus showcase their talent for crafting catchy melodies with deep lyrics, confirming their status as icons of alternative music. I'VE traveled extensively in Europe, ventured to places as far as New York, Mexico and Dubai, but there's still so much to see. My dream holiday is to further my ex- ploration of South Ameri- ca. I'd love to spend at least a month there, immersing myself in the natural won- ders and diverse cultures. LATELY I enjoyed reading The Birth of Tragedy by Frie- drich Nietzsche. This book thoroughly explores why the Ancient Greeks found mean- ing in suffering as part of their existence. Nietzsche's exploration of the Greek con- cept of tragedy is fascinating. The way he delves into the tension between rational and irrational elements in life, and how art encapsulates that struggle, is thought-pro- voking. It's intriguing how he sees the fusion of these elements in Greek art as a re- flection of the complexity of the human experience. RECENTLY I watched Poor Things, directed by Yorgos Lanthimos. It follows the story of Bella Baxter (Emma Stone), brought back to life with a new brain. The film's quirky humor, brilliant per- formances, and Lanthimos' unique style make it stand out. I particularly love its exploration of identity and autonomy. I'd recommend it for those who enjoy un- conventional narratives and thought-provoking themes presented with a touch of ab- surdity. I have a good routine for stay- ing informed through the in- ternet. I regularly follow cur- rent local, international and sports news. I rely on The Guardian's art section for international art news, and I use social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram to discover local exhibitions and emerging artists. Addi- tionally, I enjoy watching cul- tural, historical and art docu- mentaries on YouTube. Compiled by Laura Calleja suggestions by email lcalleja@mediatoday.com 1 This page is supported by Arts Council Malta 3 2 4