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MALTATODAY 23 February 2025

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maltatoday | SUNDAY • 23 FEBRUARY 2025 THIS IS A PAID COLLABORATION A decade on from its inception, Arts Council Malta (ACM) has emerged as a driving force behind the evolution of the country's cultural sector. Since its formation in 2015, ACM has pur- sued an ambitious vision inspired by the European arts scene, fostering a more outward-looking and dynamic cultural sector. Over the years, it has also ensured that artists and organ- isations receive tailored support by establishing dedicated focus areas through specialised directorates. Initiatives such as the Right to Culture pack, the Status of the Artist Charter, legal protections for artistic freedom, and financial incentives for cultural donations have further strengthened the sector. As ACM enters its second decade with a firm foundation in place, it is also embarking on a period of trans- formation, unveiling a revitalised identity that underscores its adapt- ability and the evolving role it plays in the nation's cultural ecosystem. This rebranding marks a significant moment, reflecting a decade of pro- gress while setting the stage for the future. At its core, the transformation signals a commitment to embed- ding the arts more deeply within Malta's social and economic fabric, ensuring they remain relevant and accessible to all. To this end, the new visual identity aligns seamlessly with ACM's strategic priorities, focusing on inclusivity, diversity, and broad public participation in the arts. With this renewed vision firmly in place, ACM is now turning its atten- tion to a series of tangible initiatives that will provide direct support to the cultural sector via a compre- hensive programme of funding designed to empower artists, organi- sations, and creative enterprises. This year will in fact see 23 funding schemes and 35 calls designed to support a broad range of sectors, from education and international- isation to media, artistic heritage, entrepreneurship, and communi- ty-driven projects. Among these funding opportunities, one initiative remains particularly significant: the Artistic Heritage Scheme, which plays a vital role in safeguarding and enhancing Malta's traditional village feasts. For centu- ries, these festas have been defined by their rich musical traditions, elab- orate decorations, and spectacular pyrotechnic displays. Embedded deeply in the cultural fabric of the islands, they are sus- tained by the dedication of volun- tary organisations working tirelessly to uphold their artistic and historical integrity. Recognising their impor- tance in line with the implementa- tion of Strategy 2025, ACM is contin- uing to invest in these celebrations to ensure they not only endure, but also evolve in a sustainable fashion. At the heart of this initiative is a commitment to three key areas. First is instrumental music, the lifeblood of any festa. Through this scheme, band clubs and musicians can access funding for essential training, the purchase of educational tools, and the preservation of historic musical archives. This investment is also directed towards fostering collaborations between band clubs, strengthening their role as cultural hubs within their communities. Equally vital is the issue of safe- ty within the island's renowned fireworks factories. While firework displays remain an intrinsic and much-anticipated aspect of the celebrations, the risks involved demand stringent safety measures. The scheme provides financial assis- tance for the acquisition of modern safety equipment, infrastructure improvements, and educational initiatives aimed at ensuring safer manufacturing processes without compromising the artistry behind these dazzling displays. The third pillar of the funding scheme is the preservation and enhancement of festa decorations. From the restoration of timeworn statues to the intricate manufac- ture of festoon lighting and artistic pedestals, these elements form the visual identity of each feast. Fund- ing is available not only for their upkeep but also for training arti- sans in the craftsmanship of festa decoration, safeguarding skills that have been passed down through generations. The Artistic Heritage Scheme does more than preserve the traditions of Malta's festas; it breathes new life into them, ensuring that they remain dynamic cultural expressions rather than relics of the past. By nurturing the musicians, artisans, and organ- isers who dedicate themselves to these celebrations, the scheme allows festas to evolve while staying true to their roots. The result is a tradition that is not only safeguarded but invigorated, allowing future generations to experience the colour, sound, and spectacle that have defined Malta's and Gozo's community celebrations for centuries. In a rapidly changing world, such investments affirm that heritage is not static; it is something to be lived, adapted, and carried forward with pride. In doing so, we ensure that future generations will continue to experience the spectacle, artistry, and sense of community that define these celebrations. 10 years of transformation Arts Council Malta marks its 10th anniversary this year with a renewed vision and strengthened support for the enduring legacy of Malta's traditional feasts

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