This week, on-line art gallery Allura announced the completion of its latest project: a VIP Collection of art for Malta International Airport. The VIP Collection is a curated series of artworks, selected and commissioned by Laura Swale on behalf of Allura, for the five private lounges at the newly completed VIP Terminal, officially inaugurated by Prime Minister Dr Robert Abela on 11 June 2025.
The carefully assembled VIP Collection brings together new commissions and acquisitions from contemporary artists, alongside original works from the airport’s existing collection. The result is a culturally-appropriate welcome which incorporates the landscape and the sea, Malta’s history and identity, the island’s creative spirit, and the joy of life here, and the festa experience.
“a dialogue between master and contemporary artists”
Works by renowned Maltese artists Luciano Micallef and Esprit Barthet were selected from the existing collection and reintroduced in new settings. Complementing these are recent works by Mark Schembri, Laura Swale and the late Marianne Ogden from the Allura Art Collection.
In addition, bespoke commissions were created for the five lounges by Christopher Saliba and Henry Falzon, alongside further commissioned works by prominent local painters Rune Bo Jakobsen, Richard Saliba, Caroline Said Lawrence and James Vella Clark. Each of these – the Emerald Lounge, Ruby Lounge, Heritage Lounge, Harbour Lounge and City Lounge – presents a distinct aspect of Malta, their names reflecting the themes and subject matter of the artworks within.
A showcase for Malta
For many distinguished guests arriving at the airport, the new VIP Terminal provides a critical first impression of Malta. While the space offers luxury and serenity, it also serves a deeper purpose: to create a strong sense of place and reflect the cultural wealth of the islands.
“With its premium offering and carefully curated aesthetic to give a sense of place, the VIP Terminal reflects Malta International Airport’s commitment to ensuring that the company invests in sustainable projects – contributing to a quality tourism product and aligning with the government’s vision for our industry… allowing our guests to get the best first and last impressions of our islands,” explains Alan Borg, CEO of Malta International Airport.
“Allura is honoured to have contributed to this landmark project and proud to support the promotion of Malta’s art and culture to international guests,” smiles Laura Swale of Allura Art.
See the whole selection here.
