An artwork commissioned by the Malta Book Council for the London Book Fair has sparked outrage online. The digital piece by artist Kristina Zammit Endrich shows figures throwing books from windows, prompting critical responses from the literary community. Joseph Mizzi, managing director of Midsea Books, expressed disbelief over the council’s choice, stating, “This is the National Book Council’s branding for the London Book Fair – people ripping up and throwing away books. I can’t believe it!”
Critics included PN economy spokesperson Jerome Caruana Cilia, who called the artwork ‘surreal’, and Mark Sagona from the University of Malta, who labelled it embarrassing. A commentator even linked it to Nazi book burnings of the 1930s.
The Book Council described the intention behind the artwork to symbolize the spirit of literary export, emphasising the promotional goals for the fair. Teodor Reljic, the council’s marketing manager, clarified that they did not anticipate such a negative reaction and clarified that they do not support the portrayal of books being discarded.
During its 50th edition from March 11 to 13, the London Book Fair aims to help promote Maltese literature to UK publishers.

The Malta Book Council’s promotional artwork for the London Book Fair has faced significant backlash, with critics claiming it misrepresents literary values. The council stands by its intention for the illustration, aiming to celebrate the spirit of literary export despite the controversy. The event remains an important platform for promoting Maltese literature internationally.

Original Source: timesofmalta.com

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Hannah Dowling, a Maltese curator, is a part of the newly established Furies Collective, which launched its debut exhibition, “One Extended Meditation,” at Copeland Gallery, London, from October 17-20. Dowling, who recently completed her MA in Curating Contemporary Art at the Royal College of Art, became involved with the collective through fellow student Margot Wilson. The collective aims to explore creativity through collaboration and meditation with nine participating female and non-binary artists, each contributing their unique interpretations of the creative process.

The exhibition showcased the artists’ individual meditative practices, highlighting art as an active and evolving force rather than a static experience. Dowling curated the space to foster transformative viewing experiences. Additionally, the event included a live programme where guest performers engaged with the exhibition through spontaneous improvisation, amplifying the collective’s meditative theme. Dowling’s participation is supported by the Malta Arts Scholarship Scheme, highlighting her connection to the Maltese arts community.

Hannah Dowling, a creative and curator from Malta, has recently made waves in the London art scene through her involvement with the Furies Collective, a group dedicated to reimagining creative practices. This initiative emerged from her studies in the History of Art at the University of Malta and her graduate work at the Royal College of Art, where she explored contemporary curating. The Furies Collective aims to foster collaboration among artists, particularly focusing on the intersection of creativity and meditation, which forms the basis of their inaugural exhibition.

The debut exhibition of the Furies Collective, curated by Hannah Dowling, successfully showcased the dynamic and collaborative nature of creativity. Through diverse meditative practices and live performances, the artists illuminated the continuous evolution of artistic expression. With Dowling’s dedication supported by the Malta Arts Scholarship Scheme, the collective represents a vibrant fusion of international art and cultural exploration originating from Malta. By creating transformative viewing experiences, the collective seeks to redefine the way art is perceived and engaged with.

Original Source: timesofmalta.com

The post Maltese Curator Hannah Dowling Joins Furies Collective for London Exhibition first appeared on The London Bell.