Valletta’s bid to become a European Capital of Culture in 2018 – or V.18 as it is being called - is well underway, with a five-minute promo video calling for greater recognition of local artists and their works.

Directed by Rebecca Cremona and Martin Bonnici and produced by Shadeena productions, the video takes viewers on a stroll through Malta’s capital, encouraging them to give greater consideration to the arts and culture.

Traditional Maltese customs such as band clubs and bocci are juxtaposed over less expected scenarios, such as local black metal band Martyrium rocking out in the National Archive.

The video was unveiled at an Imagine 18 workshop last week. Imagine 18 has been tasked with devising a cultural programme for Malta to submit as part of its V.18 bid.

The bid has the backing of each of Malta’s 68 local councils, with each council having pledged to support Valletta’s bid. A final decision on the bid is expected in October.