Embedded – a collection of Polish artist Wioletta Kulewska’s abstract, biomorphic paintings inspired by the marine fossil remains found inside Maltese limestone –  is on display at the Art Galleries, Palazzo de La Salle, Valletta.

From greensand beaches, coralline cliffs, to the limestone used in the construction of its buildings – all the rock found in the Maltese archipelago contains petrified life forms.

One of Wioletta Kulewska’s artworks on display in Embedded.One of Wioletta Kulewska’s artworks on display in Embedded.

Like an ancient fabric of memories, the prehistoric life recorded in Maltese rock dates back some 35 million years.

Painting in oils with use of gold leaf, and using a technique of printing plaster sculpture directly on to the canvas, Kulewska recreates the elemental process of fossilisation, and explores themes of embodiment, resemblance and disappearance. The vestiges of these prehistoric lifeforms inspire a series of meditations in oil – on fragility, the infinite and the sublime.

The exhibition runs at Palazzo de La Salle, Valletta until March 1. It is open from Monday to Friday between 8.30am and 7pm, and on Saturday from 8.30am 1.30pm. Entrance is free. More information may be obtained from the Malta Society of Arts website.

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