In the 22nd article in a series on 20th century artists who shaped Maltese modernism,
Joseph Agius delves into the world of
Harry Alden.
La Pietà
Art history has provided us with numerous examples of artists who are defined by a preferred stylistic choice, sometimes trickling into a thematic disposition as well. One can mention Giorgio Morandi and his still lifes that exude musical silence and metaphysical properties, Carlo Mattioli and his ephemeral trees amid minimal landscapes and Mark Rothko and his exploration of the spiritual through the minimalistic reduction of elements. In Maltese modernism, Harry Alden (1929-2019) stands out as being exclusively and almost religiously devoted to the technique of hard-edge.
Gozitan sculptor Mario Agius is holding an exhibition, Reflections, at the Banca Giuratale, Independence Square, Victoria.
Most of Agius’s sculptures are mainly in olive wood, local weathered limestone, Carrara marble and Gozo hardstone.
Agius (b. 1956) studied sculpture and design with the late artists Anton Agius and Harry Alden and furthered his studies in the UK with sculptor Ian Norbury. His works are in constant dialogue with nature, the sacredness of matter and all the narratives associated with humanity.
The exhibition is supported by the Cultural Heritage Directorate within the Gozo Ministry, Xagħra Local Council, Bank of Valletta, Michael Grech Financial Investments Services and GasanMamo Insurance.
Oscar Wilde defined the timeless characteristics of sculpture when he remarked: “All good work looks perfectly modern: a piece of Greek sculpture, a portrait of Velasquez ‒ they are always modern, always of our time.” The work of Gozitan sculptor Mario Agius (b. 1956) reflects this in his collection of sculptures; different sculptural languages come together as one conversation that Agius proposes as different narratives; a sequel to his previous solo exhibition, Journey, held in March 2018.
Agius first studied under the late Mgr Michelangelo Apap. He furthered his studies with the late Anton Agius and Harry Alden.
He then continued his studies in Cheltenham, England, under British sculptor Ian Norbury who broadened his versatility. Enrst Barlach, the German Expressionist sculptor, was one of the main inspirations for the British artist and this influenced Agius the student too.