Craftsman artist to show Malta-inspired works

Gozo-based artist Derek Roberts will hold his first solo exhibition of paintings, decorative art and furniture with the support of Bank of Valletta.

The exhibition, at Gallery G in Lija, will run from March 31 to April 23. Jack Thewma, manager of Bank of Valletta's Gozo branch, presented Mr Robert with the bank's sponsorship.

Mr Roberts visited Gozo and Malta for the first time four years ago and was captivated by the different landscapes, culture and heritage which inspire his work. His exhibition will include around 70 original paintings, decorative art and pieces of furniture.

Using a craftsman's skills and traditional painting techniques he produces beautifully intricate Scagliola designs.

Scagliola, which originated around 1500 in Italy, is used on a smooth marble surface which is outlined and chiselled by hand, then filled with a special mixture and wax polished. Mr Roberts has devised a method of reproducing traditional designs on wood and marble using acrylic paint then coating the design with a durable finish.