Summer, post-July that is, can be a very dry period, even when it comes to the visual arts. But there is always some exhibition or other going on, and yet I have the sneaky suspicion that often, similar to the patching up of our roads, “holes” are simply “filled” just not to be, well... empty.

Unfortunately, I feel this is the case with the present exhibition underway at the Heritage Malta head office. The exhibition, titled Passion Tru Time, is the work of Anthony Lucian Cauchi, and any comment on the works themselves really, is superfluous. Most especially after seeing the works by Robert Galea which were previously on exhibit, in a show titled Xanthon, I can’t help compare and note the extreme difference in quality.

Almost to prove a point, Heritage Malta hasn’t even advertised this exhibition on its website’s section related to current events. What’s that expression? Shooting yourself in the foot? They are only doing themselves a disfavour by giving just about anyone the chance of a solo exhibition. Abroad artists fight tooth and nail for such an opportunity, and here we simply throw them away.

With exhibitions such as this, I become more disillusioned with the local art scene. There are a couple of handfuls of artists who have made it and who have excelled to a level which allows them to compete with those abroad. There are others who have immense potential and who constantly strive to better themselves. And then there are those, who quite frankly should seek some advice before sticking their neck out and putting themselves on a pedestal for all to see. Now I’m not trying to discourage anyone from creating works of art, far from it, what I’m asking for are standards when it comes to temporary exhibitions.

Newcomers to the scene should at least seek a professional opinion before attempting to show their work, especially if this is in some prominent location; on the other hand, I expect better of whoever (singular or collective) decides what goes on show and where. I appreciate that on submission of an application, an artist’s work may look somewhat different, but all in all, that is quite a poor excuse.

As far as I know, Heritage Malta still has its volunteer scheme, as well as specifically appointed individuals whose duties should encompass (if necessary) sending out a “scout”, for lack of a better word, to evaluate the work of an artist before accepting to “loan” their premises as their showcase.

Recently I wrote a lengthy e-mail to the “organisers” concerned regarding an exhibition held at the Auberge d’Italie, which was well below standards. The Auberge is the seat of the MTA and I felt I needed to point out that as such there were certain standards which needed to be upheld.

Thankfully criticism is not taken personally the whole world over. What’s different about Heritage Malta? Its head office offers artists a long, well-lit hall, which has become quite sought after by artists, so why not be selective?

Granted, they might not want to have their hall empty for a four-week or so period, but honestly, is this the way our national agency is promoting contemporary art and artists? Where are the projects or proposals for a modern and contemporary art museum? Our national art collection is increasing by the day, OK, maybe by the month, and the dust on this collection, mostly left in stores, is simply accumulating. At least, why not organise themed exhibitions of some sort and show the public what our artists have left for future generations?

I know that the late Dennis Vella had, during his lifetime, offered some ex-students, upcoming exhibition organisers and academics the chance of curating a proper show with a researched catalogue etc.; in fact the exhibition of Victor Pasmore’s work was one case in point – but are more similar shows still in the pipeline? Are these shows solely meant to be held at the National Museum of Fine Arts, or can any Heritage Malta venue be utilised?

Heritage Malta has organised many exhibitions of note and incredible worth, and acted as a springboard for many debuting artists whom I know are forever thankful for such an opportunity; unfortunately consistency is lacking. Granting an artist the space and opportunity to exhibit his work is a vote of confidence. But when this vote of confidence is given to those who are not yet in a position to take such a plunge because of lack of background or proper disciplined training, then it is a form of disrespect to all those who work hard to strive for excellence.