An exhibition of wax sculptures by Fr Charles Vella is open at St Julian’s band club on the occasion of Holy Week.
Titled Divine Images in Wax Sculptures, the exhibition features various figures representing the Stations of the Cross – including the Veronica, Our Lady of Sorrows, the flagellation of Christ and Christ carrying the cross. All are very detailed and are draped in real fabric.
An old art form
The art of wax sculptures dates back hundreds of years, Fr Charles says.
“Traditionally, artists have used beeswax or blends of materials such as natural resins, petroleum-based waxes (like paraffin) or other organic waxes,” he explains.
There are three main types of wax sculptures:
- Bozzetto wax sculptures, which are usually small-scale preparatory models for larger works;
- Polychromed wax sculptures, which focus on realistic representation, often incorporating period styles or naturalistic details; and
- Popular or decorative wax crafts, which are primarily created for ornamental purposes.
Polychromed and expressive wax figures were particularly popular during the 18th and 19th centuries.
“Some of these works are considered true masterpieces of art and can still be found in museums and churches,” Fr Charles, who is also a restorer and conservator, says.
‘A challenging medium’
Creating wax sculptures is a complex and delicate process, especially the larger-sized ones where pieces must be joined together.
“Wax, by nature, is a challenging medium − it repels itself and, once cooled, becomes very difficult to work with or modify. Adding new pieces or colours to cooled wax is nearly impossible,” the artist notes.
“In that sense, working with wax is much like watercolour painting: once a colour is applied to the paper, it cannot be undone, and the final result depends greatly on a fortunate outcome.”
Colouring wax is also a delicate process.
“If the wax is overheated, the colour can change completely. In polychromed wax sculptures, natural skin tones and other details are built up through multiple layers of colour, applied carefully from the beginning.”
Polishing and finishing the surface requires great precision; for example, if a blister forms within the layers of wax, it can ruin the finally appearance.
Reviving the tradition
Fr Charles recalls how wax sculptures − especially those with religious themes − were often preserved in glass domes or display cases, as found in our grandparents’ homes.
“When exposed to air and natural elements outside a sealed container, the colour may fade, darken or change and biological deterioration can occur,” he points out.
Historically, Trapani and Naples were famous centres for wax artists, known as ceraristi. But today, this art form is sadly nearly extinct.
“I am working to revive this beautiful medium, which also had a tradition in Malta − imported mostly from Sicily,” Fr Charles enthuses, adding that a notable example is the “cherished local figure” of Il-Bambin tal-Gradenza.
Divine Images in Wax Sculptures is open at Michael Farrugia Hall, St Julian’s Band Club AD1927, until Saturday. One may visit the exhibition today from 6 to 9pm; tomorrow, Maundy Thursday from 10am to 1pm and 5 to 10.30pm; on Good Friday from 9am to 1pm; and on Easter Saturday from 10am to 5pm.
