The evolution of Willie Apap’s (1918-1970) choice of subject matter, form and colour palette reveals a certain kind of purification, a move from the exterior to the interior, from the visible realm to that of the inner human condition, and ultimately to the spiritual, that is, to what cannot be seen or touched.
But the deeper one goes, so too does the mystery. Apap’s keen interest in the human figure, face, and setting, undergoes a similar transformation – a transfiguration of sorts, shrouded in a thick veil of ambiguity, incompleteness and obscurity.
Revelations, organised by Fondazzjoni Patrimonju Malti, in collaboration with the Central Bank of Malta and the Victor Pasmore Foundation, seeks to trace the moment Apap stopped looking at the physical world and peered inside, beneath the veil of the apparent where truth and mystery fuse as one.
The first part of the exhibition is a text-based photographic walkthrough which leads you into the depth of his artistic formation and philosophy, from his early years to his Italian connections and, ultimately, to his mounting concern on the human psyche and spirit.The exhibition continues with a selected thematic display of Apap’s works at the Victor Pasmore Gallery.
Revelations is taking place at the Victor Pasmore Gallery. Entrance to the exhibition, open to the public from Monday to Friday between 11am and 3pm, is free.