The next Art Discussion Group meeting is being held today in Qrendi with sculptor Ray Azzopardi as guest speaker.

Azzopardi’s works are statuesque, strong, bold, massive, robust and heavy and his sculpture does not reflect or refract light, instead it absorbs it.

Actor, 2012, polychromed wood, 50x33x20cm

“Since I started carving wood,” Azzopardi explains, “I have changed my ways of approaching my craft and art. I am interested in the skill of carving that involves hours of patient work, but also concerned about the subject matter I choose related to my vision and concept and to the type of wood used and its finish.”

Azzopardi’s inspiration comes from everyday life, meeting new friends, hearing lyrics or titles of songs, emotions and news. Interestingly, the next stage for him is giving a title to his work before he begins to work on it.

In recent years, he has participated in two exhibitions held at the Cavalieri Art Hotel, Contemporary Sculpture Exhibition – 100 years of Maltese Sculpture (2015) and Contemporanea (2016).

During the meeting, he will answer questions from the floor regarding his vision, concept, approach and technique. He will also elaborate about his career and particular works that gave him great satisfaction.

The meeting is being held today at 7.30pm at St Mary’s Band Club in Qrendi, near the parish church. For more information, visit www.adgmalta.webs.com.