Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1542465
JANUARY 10 @ 09:00 - 17:00 Between Earth, Light & Silence Il-Ħaġar Gozo Museum Triq il-Karita`, Victoria, Gozo, Malta In this temporary exhibition, Gozitan artist Victor Agius explores the theme of the Nativity as a liminal threshold — a space where the earthly and the divine con- verge. Twenty years after his seminal exhibition Nativitas, Agius returns to this sacred narrative, inviting viewers to dwell in the mystery of the Incarnation, where matter meets spirit and silence receives light. Through a poetic interplay of earth, pigment, and form, Agius reinter- prets traditional iconography and transforms it into a contemporary meditation on birth, transformation, and the sacredness of being. His works evoke both fragility and transcendence, reflecting the human longing for connection with the divine. The exhibition becomes a journey through stillness and revelation, where clay, ash, and light act as vessels of memory and hope. Agius's art calls us to pause — to sense the quiet miracle unfolding within and around us — and to rediscover the Nativity not only as an event of the past but as an ever-present moment of becoming. JANUARY 11 @ 09:00 - 17:00 Frank Mizzi's Iconic Nativity Crib Il-Ħaġar Gozo Museum Triq il-Karita`, Victoria, Gozo, Malta Frank Mizzi began constructing this unique Christmas crib around forty years ago, and it has remained a living work in progress ever since — an evolving testa- ment to both artistic devotion and spiritual reflection. Over the decades, Mizzi con- tinuously refined and expanded the scene, adding new features, figures, and details that imbue the crib with a profound sense of narrative and craftsmanship. Until only a few years ago, the crib was lovingly displayed in an exhibition space adjoining his home in Triq tal-Għajn, just off St Augustine Square in Victoria. There, it became something of a local treasure, drawing visitors who admired its intricate detail and heartfelt expression of faith. In a gesture of remarkable generosity and foresight, Frank Mizzi donated this exceptional work to Il-Ħaġar Museum, ensuring its preser- vation and acces- sibility for future generations. Today, the crib stands not only as a master- piece of artisanal skill but also as a symbol of dedica- tion, tradition, and community spirit — a celebration of the timeless story of the Nativity as seen through the eyes of one man's lifelong passion. JANUARY 11 @ 12:00 - 17:45 Art Exhibition: Gateways and Portals Chrysalis Studio Viviani Court, Mġarr Road, Xewkija Planet Earth is entering 2026, a change that is both cosmical and cul- tural in nature as it is global and local. A time marked by various traditions and celebrations throughout histo- ry, the first quarter of the year fea- tures New Year's Eve fireworks, Holi, the Lunar (or Chinese) New Year, Carnival/ Mardi Gras, and the March Equinox. The names of the first months of the year reflect themes of beginnings, purification, and renewal from ancient Roman culture. Gateways and Portals invites visitors to pause at the threshold of time, season, and meaning. This is where endings dissolve and new begin- nings take form. This exhibition itself is a portal: a moment to cross, reflect, and step consciously into what is emerg- ing. Able to be viewed in-per- son or virtually, it aims to cele- brate the vari- ous aspects of the first quarter of the new year. It explores the el- ements of Fire, Water, Earth, and Air, Blue and Orange, and Celestial Spheres and Chinese Mythology, with each category revealing something about the mysterious world of gateways and portals. JANUARY 18 @ 17:00 - 20:30 Kantamagħna Teatru Astra Triq ir-Repubblika, Victoria, Gozo, Malta Get ready for a mag- ical musical journey as Kantamagħna returns for its most exciting edition yet! This vibrant singers' festival brings togeth- er powerful voices, fresh young talent, and the irresistible en- ergy of Kantamaghna Junior, all wrapped in a dazzling, feel-good atmosphere. Backed by the sensational DCapitals Big Band, every song shines bigger, bolder, and brighter—blending emotion, rhythm, and pure joy into one unforgettable experience. Expect goosebumps, smiles, and plenty of moments that will have you humming long after the final note fades. JANUARY 20 @ 18:30 - 21:00 Life Drawing Xagħra - Various Locations Join us for a relaxed life drawing session set in a tucked-away corner of Xagħra, where creativi- ty flows as the sun goes down. Our model will pose in the soft glow of golden hour, offering an inspiring atmosphere to spark your sketches. Expect light bites, wine, and everything you need to settle into an evening of art and connection. We're excited to co-host with local artist Julian Calabrese, who'll be on hand to share his insights and tips throughout the session. Whether you're a practiced artist looking to sharpen your skills or a curious beginner dipping your toes into life drawing, this evening is about enjoying the process and simply making marks on the page. If you are an art student, experienced artist, or planning to bring your own materials or drinks? Reach out for a special discounted rate! JANUARY 23 @ 19:00 - 21:00 Wine and Poetry Night Qawsalla Hub Triq Enrico Mizzi, Victoria, Gozo, Malta Join us for an intimate and welcoming evening of poetry, creativity, and com- munity. Whether you write regularly, are just curious about poetry, or simply enjoy listening, this night is for you. We'll create a relaxed space to practice writing your own poetry, listen to others share their work, and exchange ideas and inspirations. There's no pressure to perform or to be "good" at poetry — your presence, thoughts, and imagination are more than enough. Come as you are, bring your creativity, and connect with others. Wine and non-alco- holic drinks will be available, and the focus will be on expression, connection, and mutual respect. What's happening in Gozo Did you know? Ta' Sannat lies in the south of the island of Gozo. The name is probably derived from that of an Arabic-Greek family that moved to Gozo from Sicily. Ta' Sannat is best known for the Ta' Cenc plateau on the edge of the village and its spectacular Ta' Cenc cliffs, the highest cliffs in Gozo. The plateau is typical Maltese garigue rich in flora and fuana. It is also the site of a number of prehistoric remains, including sparse remnants of L-Imramma Temple and three dolmens (made up of, a roughly shaped horizontal limestone slab supported on three sides by blocks of stone standing on end). The plateau overlooks the Hanżira valley, a natural gorge with steep rocky sides separating Ta' Sannat from the village of ix-Xewkija, of which there are excellent views. 2 gozotoday | FRIDAY • 9 JANUARY 2026 EVENTS