Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1544339
8 gozotoday | FRIDAY • 10 APRIL 2026 ART , Public monument Encounter inaugurated in Xewkija as first of four artworks in Gozo THE public monument En- counter has been inaugurated in Xewkija as the first of four art installations set to be placed across Gozo, marking the launch of a wider initiative to enhance public spaces through artistic expression. The contemporary sculpture, located in Triq San Anard, is part of a project aimed at beau- tifying the urban environment while creating more opportuni- ties for Gozitan artists to show- case their work in open, acces- sible settings. Three additional artworks are expected to be in- stalled in the coming months. Speaking during the inaugu- ration, the Minister for Gozo Clint Camilleri said the pro- ject originated from a call for expressions of interest issued to local artists. He explained that submissions were evalu- ated not only on their artistic concept but also on the narra- tive and meaning behind each work. The minister said that the in- itiative forms part of a broad- er vision to strengthen Gozo's cultural identity and position it as an island of art and crea- tivity. He noted that such in- vestment also contributes to ongoing efforts for Victoria to be named a European Capital of Culture in 2031. Encounter was created by Gozitan artist Christopher Sal- iba and is described as a min- imalist contemporary sculp- ture inspired by the megalithic stone structures of Ġgantija. The artist said the piece repre- sents a symbolic meeting point between Gozo's historical her- itage and its present, shaped by innovation and technological development. Saliba, who grew up in Xagħra, said his inspiration stems from a personal connec- tion to the island's cultural and historical legacy. He explained that the work seeks to create a symbolic link between people and the village, which is closely associated with the prehistoric Ġgantija temples. The initiative reflects ongo- ing efforts to bring art closer to the public by moving it beyond traditional enclosed spaces and into everyday environments, making it more accessible to both residents and visitors while adding value to public areas Encounter was created by Gozitan artist Christopher Saliba and is described as a minimalist contemporary sculpture inspired by the megalithic stone structures of Ggantija