The NGO LGBTI+Gozo, the only queer organisation on the island of Gozo, is currently engaged in a gender-based domestic violence campaign ‘Safe Spaces, Strong Voices: Art for Empowerment’, funded by the Commission on Gender-Based Violence and Domestic Violence and the Parliamentary Secretary for Reforms and Equality through the Together We Empower programme.
As part of this initiative, they are organising free, confidential, art-based workshops for survivors of gender-based and domestic violence, their families, and allies. “Art is a powerful tool for healing, helping survivors process emotions, release trauma, and express what words often can’t,” says community officer Warren Bugeja. “It offers a safe, non-judgmental space to rebuild self-worth, identity, and a sense of control often lost through abuse.”
In particular there is a wall of silence regarding LGBTI+ issues on Gozo with people preferring to come out or attend activities on Malta.
“This is a space for healing, empowerment, and creative expression—no prior artistic experience needed. We’d like to make clear that attendees do not need to identify as members of the LGBTI+ community although it is a safe space for all and they should be respectful of individuals who identify as queer,” Bugeja adds. The workshops are also child-friendly.
Workshops include Mindful Art (painting, sculpting, collaging, and more) facilitated by artist Abi MacLeod (Saturdays June 21, July 5, July 19, August 2 from 4–6pm at Qawsalla Hub, Enrico Mizzi Street, Victoria) and Mindful Weaving facilitated by local weaver Alda Bugeja. These offer weaving, macrame, time on the loom and participants can learn skills and create bags, bracelets, rugs, keychains and cushions to take home. (These are held at 88 Triq Palma, Victoria on 2 July, 12 July, 16 July, 26 July, 3 Sept, 13 Sept, 17 Sept, 27 Sept – Wednesdays (5–7pm) & Saturdays (2–4pm).) There are is a maximum of six participants for the weaving workshops so please prebook as soon as possible.
All materials are provided. Both venues are fully air-conditioned, private, and confidential.