The Italian Cultural Institute will be presenting an illustrated public lecture by Dennis Vella entitled Emvin Cremona and Rome: A Lasting Influence tomorrow at 6.30 p.m.

The lecture, which forms part of a busy programme of cultural activities of the Istituto, will be held at its premises in St George’s Square, opposite the Palace, Valletta.

In his lecture Mr Vella will chart broadly the stylistic development of the important Maltese artist Emvin Cremona (1919-1987) particularly in the 1960s. Special reference will be made to his various influences, particularly from Italian art before the war.

After having studied at the Malta School of Art, Cremona proceeded to the Regia Accademia di Belle Arti in Rome between 1938 and 1940, but had to return to Malta due to the outbreak of World War II. The lecture will also feature Cremona’s decorations, paintings and graphic art made on the occasion of the great Pauline anniversary celebrations held in Malta in 1960. These took place, at a time of acute political tension, to commemorate the anniversary of the coming of St Paul to Malta. New and surprising discoveries on Cremona’s art will be presented in this lecture.

The lecture will be delivered in English and will be richly illustrated with many previously-unpublished works by Cremona. Admission is free. Seating is limited and guests are asked to be seated by 6.15 p.m.