Artist: Donald Camilleri

Clay and fire amalgamate to form a dynamic showcase of around 60 contemporary ceramic works at the Auberge d’Italie in Valletta.

Supported by Emirates, the Malta Cyprus Ceramics Exhibition is a celebration of works by artists from the two countries.

This collaboration has grown since the first exhibition in 2005, with the venue alternating between Malta and Larnaca in Cyprus ever since.

From an idea by Sina Farrugia Micallef eight years ago, the series of exhibitions has been continued through the initiative of Maltese ceramists Charles Sammut and Mario Sammut, together with Vassos Demetriou and Efthymios Symeou from the Cyprus Ceramists and Potters Association.

The exhibition steers away from traditional craft to present an art form defined as contemporary ceramics.

Maltese and Cypriot ceramists, who travel to each other’s countries for the respective exhibitions, have formed a working relationship through cultural interactions and encounters.

“The principal aim is the exchange of ideas, information and other cultural elements that help foster better mutual understanding between cer­amists of the two countries.

“The continued development of contemporary ceramics from both countries is evident for all to see at this exhibition,” Mario Sammut said.

Open until November 6, it boasts a wide variety of pieces – from the figurative to the more abstract, inspired by mythology or drawing inspiration from contemporary times.

Some reflect a more sombre nature while others are endowed with a humorous twist.