Frank Salt’s Sliema branch once again transformed itself into an art gallery, hosting a solo art exhibition for local artist Geoffrey Ciantar. This is the second exhibition held at the Sliema office this year, the first being by Nickie Sultana last May.

Manager George Vassallo, together with the artist, were able to display 20 works of art, which were first displayed during an evening reception hosting clients, colleagues and friends.

Ciantar was born in 1969, coincidentally the same year Frank Salt was established. At the age of 11 he finished his first two oil paintings, which still hang in his parents’ home in Msida. He was lucky to have popular artist Harry Alden as his art teacher in secondary school and later, in his 20s, Ciantar spent one year working closely with sculptor Anton Agius, the latter having had a great influence on him to further develop  his technique and to experiment with other media and materials.

The exhibition is Ciantar’s third, yet the first that entirely exhibits pieces created with oil pastels.

It is being held in aid of FIDEM Charity Foundation. Founded by Sabine Cabourdin, FIDEM is a non-profit organisation which provides support and empowerment to vulnerable people, focusing mainly on women and children, through education, art and culture. During the exhibition the foundation showcased crafts and Christmas decorations handmade by victims and survivors of domestic violence.

Such events form part of the many initiatives to support local talent by Frank Salt Real Estate. “The company is committed to support the proliferation of culture and the arts and we are therefore very pleased to partner with local talent such as Geoffrey,” said Mr Vassallo. “Such initiatives encourage creativity among individuals and groups and help them showcase their work to a wider audience.”

Ciantar’s art collection will be on display for viewings and sales at Frank Salt Real Estate’s Sliema branch, 201, Tower Road, until December 31. For enquiries, call 2342 1000 or e-mail sliema@franksalt.com.mt.