Experiencing architecture

It has been said that stones speak and it is these stones, coming together in the creation of architecture, that are witnesses to the passage of time, the writing of history. Time is the central issue to the events being held in Malta to mark World Architecture Day (celebrated last Monday); the representation of time indicates that whilst architecture strives to be immortal as it must face the test of time, it is also something current and very real, that which influences and affects our daily lives.

Architecture is more than just the provision of a building but an experience. The late and great American architect Philip Johnson distinguished "architecture" from "great architecture" by saying that "all architecture is shelter" but "great architecture is the design of space that contains, cuddles, exalts or stimulates the persons in that space".

Great architecture is that which is able to arouse in us certain emotions and inspirations, feelings one gets when sitting upon the ruins to the back of the old Opera House in Valletta and gazing at the Baroque church of St Catherine of Italy, or, similarly yet from another time, distant to that of the Knights of St John, the modern, sculptural volumes of the church of St Joseph at Manikata. Malta's history is abundant with such examples of great architecture, the creators of which were able to capture the essence of their time and inscribe it permanently into our landscapes and cityscapes.

Each period in Maltese history is marked by a school of architecture. Rulers and occupants throughout history wished to leave their mark on Malta in an immortal manner. Sometimes, it can be argued, this was done as a show of power; the Auberge de Castille in Valletta for example. Its monumental scale and highly decorative façade stood for the absolute supremacy of the Order of St John. Also, the Protestant church in Valletta - St. Paul's church - with its large mass and steeple puncturing the Valletta skyline - is almost crying out to be heard in the midst of a dedicated Roman Catholic country. It is evident that architecture was very much on the agenda for these people.

The provision of noteworthy architecture should not only be limited to the design of churches, palaces, museums or other public buildings but should be inherent in the design of all architecture. Children should be brought up to appreciate their surroundings in a more practical manner than simply through textbooks - architecture should be on the agenda from the early years of one's schooling.

An exhibition being organised by the Chamber of Architects in collaboration with the Society of Architecture and Civil Engineering Students exemplifies this inspiration of architectural education - a presentation of over 60 examples of architecture designed by some 15 local architects and architectural firms where their efforts have produced architecture worthy of note. This is of exceptional importance as it is the first time in many years that so many architects and firms have come together in such a unique collaboration. Moreover, the exhibition includes a display of carefully selected students' design projects, ranging from first year projects up to fifth year thesis projects, a display of the high standard of work achieved by students reading the B.E. & A. Honours course.

The exhibition is only one of several events being held in connection with World Architecture Day - an international celebration of quality architecture and urban design on October 3 each year. Malta's contribution to this date is Time for Architecture, a programme of architecture-related events which started on September 29 and end on October 16, taking place in various locations in Valletta. Internationally acclaimed speakers will be brought over for the event, thus further emphasising its importance. Also on the programme is a film festival, a children's workshop, a book launch, a conference and a students' workshop.

The aim is for developers, clients, architects and people in general to come to appreciate the importance of quality architecture and its bearing on our daily lives. Architecture can and should find its place on the national agenda.

Ms Valentino is a final year architecture and civil engineering student.

www.timeforarchitecture.com