A flight of mosaic stairs, made by Għajnsielem residents, was inaugurated by Infrastructure Minister Ian Borg.

The project, spread over 12 months, started with the residents making 500 ceramic fish under the direction of Hermine Sammut. These were later incorporated into mosaics. Each of the 47 risers is dedicated to a particular street or voluntary group. On the initiative of Għajnsielem local council, residents joined mosaicist Mary Portelli in making the mosaics, entitled ‘Reflections and Connections’.

In making the design, Ms Portelli was inspired by the reflections of the colourful boats found in Mġarr. These multicoloured reflections also represent the vibrant community of this locality and the uniqueness of each person.

“The Għajnsielem community is co-creator and owner of this artwork as much as the artists themselves. This has led to a sense of local identity and community pride and has served to stimulate the growth of a culturally engaged community,” said the council. Following the enthusiastic participation of Għajnsielem residents, the council set up ‘Team Mosaic Għajnsielem’.

This is a living legacy of ‘Reflections and Connections’, which is one of the six projects selected for the Art in Public Spaces programme. The stairs were blessed by Għajnsielem archpriest, Canon Frankie Bajada.