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maltatoday | SUNDAY • 8 DECEMBER 2024 4 ALMANAC My essentials MICHELLE GIALANZE 56, Artist I cherish my family deeply, always prioritising them above all else. Painting has been a passion of mine since I was around 15. Fortunately, my career as an educator also brought immense joy, and in the past eight years, I've been able to refocus on my art full time, reigniting that creative spark. 1. Books 2. Film 3. Internet/TV 4. Music 5. Place MUSIC captivates me with its ability to evoke emotion and transform moments. I enjoy a wide range of genres, from the timeless beauty of classical compositions to the innova- tive sounds of modern artists. Billie Eilish, in particular, res- onates with me for her unique style, haunting melodies, and thought-provoking lyrics. Her music feels intimate yet power- ful, a blend of vulnerability and boldness that I deeply admire. Music, in all its forms, remains a source of inspiration and con- nection for me. MEXICO captivates me with its incredible art, a vibrant tapestry of culture and history that I deeply admire, though I haven't yet experienced it in person. From the bold mu- rals of Diego Rivera to Frida Kahlo's intimate self-portraits, Mexican art offers a profound connection to identity, resil- ience, and creativity. Its rich traditions, like colourful folk art and intricate textiles, in- spire me greatly. I hope to one day explore these masterpieces firsthand and immerse myself in Mexico's artistic brilliance. ONE book I've read in the past year is The Unbearable Light- ness of Being by Milan Kunde- ra. I found it fascinating for its exploration of the weight and lightness of human choices. It taught me that life's transient nature can feel liberating yet burdensome, and how our re- lationships are shaped by this paradox of meaning and free- dom. I recently watched Joy, a film that delves into IVF and a woman's struggle to have her voice heard as a central part of the process. I loved the film's emotional depth and would absolutely recom- mend it for its powerful por- trayal of resilience. It is based on a true story. AT the moment, I love look- ing at the fashion designer Iris van Herpen. Her designs captivate me because they are so deeply inspired by na- ture, blending organic forms with futuristic techniques. I admire how her work em- bodies both creativity and innovation, creating pieces that feel alive and dynamic. Compiled by Laura Calleja suggestions by email lcalleja@mediatoday.com This page is supported by Arts Council Malta 4 5 1 2 3