Joanne Fenech Portelli is exhibiting her latest collection of landscape paintings at Palazzo Ferreria in Valletta. Inspired by the unique character, light and atmosphere of the Maltese islands, the works have mostly been painted en plein air, created on location and directly from observation.
The exibition marks Fenech Portelli’s first solo exhibition since 2023. Over the past three years, she has continued to explore both familiar and lesser-known corners of Malta and Gozo. Her aim is to capture scenes that often go unnoticed, revealing the beauty found in everyday surroundings, from fields of yellow wildflowers and trees in Santa Luċija to a tamarisk tree growing among the rocks along the coast in Birżebbuġa.
Working outdoors allows Fenech Portelli to respond directly to shifting light, weather and atmosphere, capturing not only the appearance of a place but also its spirit. Visitors may recognise familiar scenes while experiencing them through a fresh and personal perspective.
A special feature of the exhibition is a series of paintings depicting Filfla from different viewpoints. Originally from Qrendi, Joanne says she has always been drawn to the islet, which never appears quite the same from one day to the next. Each painting captures a different atmosphere and emotional response, using Filfla as a focal point through which to explore light, mood and the ever-changing relationship between landscape and observer.
Ultimately, IslandScapes celebrates the beauty of the Maltese environment and invites viewers to pause, reflect and reconnect with the landscapes that help shape our identity.
The exhibition is open at Palazzo Ferreria on Republic Street, Valletta, home to the Ministry for Social Policy and Children’s Rights, until Friday, June 17. Opening hours are daily from 8am to 7pm.
For more information, look up Joanne Fenech Portelli Fine Art on social media.
