Paul Camilleri-Cauchi writes:

Once, while treading carefully on the intricate pavement tombstones at St John Co-Cathedral, I came across an epitaph which indelibly remained in my memory: “When you were born, you cried and I laughed; hope when you die, you laugh and I cry!”

This phrase came to mind with a vengeance on August 28, 2010, when I received a call at my studio from my daughter Tiziana, announcing the passing away of the sculptor master, Salvu Bugeja. I was taken aback by the news and needed to sit down.

I knew Salvu for a long time. Together we worked on a number of artistic projects for church interiors as well as for festa decorations.

Salvu possessed a style in woodcarving which is hard to emulate. His charcoal pencil would create intricate designs for sculpture which eventually would be transformed into three-dimensional decorations in wood. Problems in execution which looked insurmountable, Salvu solved rapidly.

His works form an artistic patrimony which will surely be appreciated by artistic connoisseurs in the future.

He designed and sculpted church altars, band stands, big benches and daises for statues. He even designed ornamental flags for churches and archival cases for band societies.

His works act as the exegesis of his own designs. He was designer of his own fancy and the interpreter craftsman who gave soul to his designs.

Salvu was considered an authority in his field. Despite the high esteem he enjoyed by all, he was a very humble man; I received only courtesy and respect from him.

Contrary to popular opinion, Salvu did not possess an art school but, undoubtedly, a number of works are the product of his influence. Malta has lost a giant in the field of sculpture, an honest citizen and an exemplary Christian father.

His loss will be felt for a very long time, especially by those who worked close to him, and discussed art and the values of life with him on a number of occasions.

My deep condolences go to his children and relatives. I cry for his loss but I am sure Salvu is happy and enjoying things much more beautiful than we are able to see in this world.

May his interlacing lines and gracefully formed sculpture go on reminding each one of us of this great man.