Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1543912
3 maltatoday | SUNDAY • 15 MARCH 2026 ART Josette Fenech: The convergence of art and empowerment in Where Hands Meet Maltese abstract artist Josette Fenech presents Where Hands Meet, a new body of work that ref lects both the maturity of her artistic practice and her deeply felt social commitment. The exhibition will be held at Palazzo Ferreria until 5 April MALTESE abstract artist Jo- sette Fenech presents Where Hands Meet, a new body of work that reflects both the maturi- ty of her artistic practice and a deeply felt social commitment. Born and raised in Mellieħa, where she continues to live and work, Fenech has developed a distinctive visual language char- acterised by luminous colour, emotional intensity and a quiet spiritual depth. Her earlier solo exhibitions, RIFLESSI (2013) and AGAINST ALL ODDS (2015), established her reputation both locally and internationally. In 2017 she represented Malta in London with the exhibition HORIZONS, held in celebration of the Maltese Presidency of the Council of Europe. That same year she presented ILWIEN IL-GŻEJJER at the Banca Gi- uratale in Victoria, Gozo. Over the years she has also participated in numerous col- lective exhibitions and interna- tional collaborations, including projects in Sicily and Umbria, The Bieganski Art Festival at the Mediterranean Conference Cen- tre, and an exhibition at the Par- liament Building in Valletta. Her work forms part of both public and private collections. Working primarily in acrylic, Fenech's compositions explore abstraction through colour, movement and emotional reso- nance. While inspired by mas- ters such as Van Gogh, Monet and Turner, her work remains distinctly personal, guided by an intuitive pursuit of light and at- mosphere. Alongside her artistic practice, Fenech has long been involved in philanthropic initiatives. Through voluntary engagement with individuals navigating diffi- cult periods in heir lives — in- cluding young people and adults with various disabilities — she witnessed the transformative power of creative expression in fostering dignity, confidence and inclusion. Moved by this experience, she has chosen to dedicate Where Hands Meet in aid of the Ta' Saura National Empowerment Hub, a flagship project of The Malta Trust Foundation, found- ed and chaired by H.E. Ma- rie-Louise Coleiro Preca, former President of Malta. Proceeds from the sale of artworks will contribute towards programmes that promote empowerment, ac- cessibility and inclusive partici- pation. The exhibition is curated by Louis Laganà, academic, cura- tor and practising artist. For Fenech, the title Where Hands Meet symbolises collaboration — the meeting of artist and can- vas, community and purpose, creativity and care. The exhibition will take place at Palazzo Ferreria in Valletta from 14 March to 5 April 2026, and will be open daily from 9am to 7pm. For updates and further information, visit the Facebook page: https://www.facebook. com/josette.fenech.artist