The art of being famous like a dog named Star

Star, the dog that made international news last May after being shot, tortured and buried alive, once again plays protagonist. This time however, under very different circumstances.

Star has been commemorated by Debbie Caruana Dingli in a watercolour painting the artist donated to the annual fine arts auction in aid of the Malta Community Chest Fund.

The auction, which will be held at the President’s Palace in San Anton on December 1, is one of the events leading up to the annual charity marathon L-Istrina on December 26. The auction is preceded by an exhibition and viewing period at The Grand Masters Palace, in Valletta, where prospective buyers will have the opportunity of scrutinising each of the 58 lots going under the hammer.

Nostalgically, this year’s auction also pays homage to several Maltese visual artists and painters who have passed away over the past few years. Thus, art collectors and aficionados will be happy to know that the donations included a sculpture by Anton Agius (1933-2008), a study in pen and ink for Paceville’s church by Antoine Camilleri (1922-2005), a pencil and watercolour work by Victor Diacono titled On the Promenade, an etching by George Fenech titled Tieġ ta’ Kana, a lithograph by Frank Portelli titled Wickedness and two abstract, mixed-media works by Vincenzo Maria Pellegrini. Each of these works was donated to the MCCF’s cause by the widows and family members of the respective artists.

Over the last two years, about €90,000 was generated in aid of the MCCF. The sum collected from this year’s auction will be announced and presented to President George Abela during L-Istrina. Joseph Sammut, of Belgravia Auction Gallery, will be auctioning the lots on December 1.

The exhibition of works is open for viewing in the Dining Room at the palace in Valletta till November 30. Viewing is free of charge. An illustrated catalogue can be viewed online at www.mccf.org.mt.

More information and thosewanting to attend the auction can contact event coordinator Christine Camilleri on 9987 4068 or email her at christine.camilleri@gov.mt