A chat about Jetty Life exhibition with Michelle Gialanze
Michelle Gialanze spoke to ARTZ ID about her ongoing exhibition ‘Jetty Life’ at the Bizzilla Art Space , part of the newly refurbished MAPFRE MSV LIFE offices in Floriana. In this interview, she shares with us how she started painting, her favourite work in the exhibition, and more. ‘Jetty Life’ presents a collection of 24 oil paintings portraying summer life on the island and a sense of community that plays out around the jetty and by the water. Relationships between families, friends and sea and memories of time spent at the seaside come to life in Michelle’s canvases.
Can you tell us about how your artistic practice has evolved over the years up to now?
When I was at school I used to mess around in my art class. One day, my art teacher, Mrs. Chircop grabbed me and put me in front of a cabbage and told me, “It’s time you painted.” From that moment on I never looked back. Whilst working in Valletta I attended art school. I used to paint in watercolours then, and paint whenever I could. My artistic practice evolved with the help of great teachers and the experiences I encountered throughout my life.
What is the idea behind your exhibition and the inspiration behind the body of work being exhibited?
Which is your favourite piece and why?
All of them are my babies… however I have a little more affinity with ‘Babe Watch’. It shows so much happening – 3 middle-aged women coming out of the sea and going to the bar to share a coffee carrying their floating aids. They are able to share so much, their fears unashamedly, their comforts…
Can you share with us some projects that you have in the pipeline and dreams that you have as an artist?
Whenever I embark on a project I tend to reflect, write, read and do some research. My work carries with it quite a bit of meaning for me, and I hope to share this with others once the works are completed. Right now I am in the preliminary stage for 2 upcoming projects. As an artist, I just want my work to encourage the viewer to experience something they may have not considered previously, and if I can, share some joy.
See more of Michelle’s (Mixa) art on her website www.mixapainting.com. Follow the artist and her work on ARTZ ID.
I have only recently discovered Mixa and her artworks; I see paintings as something to enjoy. Find many of her pieces very thought provoking – some are just what I want to hang on my walls! A very talented artist.