Gallery 23, in Balzan, is welcoming back acclaimed South African artist Glendine Chisholm for her latest solo exhibition, Wings of Summer Memories.
The collection explores themes of migration, family and the profound emotional map of an artist who has found a second home on the island.
For the past four years, Chisholm has made an annual pilgrimage from South Africa to Malta to visit her son. During this time, the island has evolved from a simple holiday destination into a powerful muse.
Her new body of work serves as a visual diary of these months, capturing the Maltese landscape from a unique “bird’s-eye view”. Much like the migratory birds that travel thousands of miles to find the warmth of a Mediterranean summer, Chisholm’s paintings reflect a soul in flight, navigating the distance between two hemispheres.
“There is a quiet dialogue that unfolds between these two lands. The rugged terrain and resilient flora of Malta often mirror the sun-baked soil of South Africa,” Chisholm says.
“I wanted to capture the warmth of the sun and the strength of the ties that pull me back to this island year after year”
“Through these works, I wanted to capture the warmth of the sun and the strength of the ties that pull me back to this island year after year.”
A platform for new talent
The exhibition marks a significant departure from traditional solo shows.
In the run-up to the exhibition, Chisholm hosted a four-day immersive workshop titled ‘Finding Your Artistic Voice’. Under her mentorship, a group of amateur artists worked to expand their technical craft and tap into their personal creative narratives. These participants were then invited to exhibit their final pieces alongside Chisholm.
This “exhibition within an exhibition” provides a rare platform for emerging local talent to showcase their work in a professional gallery setting, creating a bridge between established international artistry and the local creative community.
Wings of Summer Memories runs until June 5. Opening hours: Sundays from 10.30am to 1pm and Wednesdays from 6 to 8pm. One may also visit the exhibition by appointment by calling on 9942 8272 or e-mail info@gallery23malta.com.
