Heritage Malta opens a new exhibition today, entitled ‘In-naħa l-oħra – Francis Ebejer il-pittur’, celebrating the birth centenary of one of Malta’s most revered cultural figures. Born in the rural village of Ħad-Dingli in 1925, Francis Ebejer is best known as a distinguished playwright and novelist whose contributions in the sector – including novels, short stories, and plays that were published and performed internationally – transformed the local scene. His work resonated deeply with the Maltese public, not only for its literary merit but also for the way it challenged conventions and gave voice to the evolving identity of post-war Malta.
This new exhibition at MUŻA, hosted in a new exhibition space at MUŻA – the National Community Art Museum, in Valletta offers the public a chance to explore a lesser known and deeply personal side of Francis Ebejer’s creativity: his visual art.
While Ebejer remains primarily celebrated for his literary legacy, painting became an important form of expression for him, particularly in his later years. It provided him with a space for introspection and abstraction, complementing his literary work and allowing him to delve into themes of identity, memory, and self-exploration in a completely different, yet equally expressive, medium.
‘In-naħa l-oħra – Francis Ebejer il-pittur’ brings together a curated selection of his visual works, including 14 art pieces – four recently acquired by the national collection and others generously loaned from his son Damian Ebejer’s private collection.
Highlights include evocative paintings such as ‘Tal-Ħut (Fishwoman)’ and ‘Day’s End on Southern Cliffs’. Personal artefacts like manuscripts, posters, awards, and Ebejer’s own typewriter, alongside a bronze bust by renowned sculptor Anton Agius, on loan from Spazju Kreattiv, also complement the display.
This exhibition is supported by the Akkademja tal-Malti and the Department of Theatre Studies at the University of Malta – led by Prof. Marco Galea, and features footage from the Public Broadcasting Services’ archives.
During the opening event, Dr Owen Bonnici, Minister for Culture, Lands and the Local Government, explained how: “Francis Ebejer was a giant in Malta’s literature and art scene, who left an invaluable legacy in writing and painting. His works, both on stage and on canvas, reflect the social and cultural changes of our country in a profound and artistic way.”
“Today, we remember and honour him through this exhibition which brings out his artistic side. I wholeheartedly thank each person who contributed to this initiative,” he concluded saying.
See more details on the exhibition here.