Joana Vasconcelos is headlining Malta's International Contemporary Art Space (MICAS) opening exhibition – 'Transcending the Domestic'

The renowned Portuguese artist inaugurated the Malta International Contemporary Art Space (MICAS), Malta’s first museum dedicated to contemporary art, with an expansive solo exhibition that opened in October 2024. Vasconcelos, known for her vibrant and thought-provoking installations, became the first artist to showcase her work in the newly restored Ospizio complex, a 17th-century fortress overlooking Marsamxett Harbour and offering a breathtaking view of Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Vasconcelos, who had recently made headlines for her commissioned stage design for Christian Dior’s 2023-2024 Paris Fashion Week show, brought her signature blend of exuberant color, monumental scale, and social commentary to Malta. Her exhibition at MICAS explored themes of domesticity and spirituality, featuring iconic works such as Tree of Life, The Garden of Eden, and Valkyrie Mumbet. These pieces were juxtaposed with other installations that delved into the tensions between everyday life and the search for emotional and spiritual release.

With its historic walls and light-filled galleries, the new MICAS venue provided a stunning backdrop for her monumental installations, which frequently incorporated everyday, non-precious materials in bold and unconventional ways. The exhibition resonated deeply with themes of gender and cultural politics, aligning with Vasconcelos’ broader artistic practice. Download the Press Kit.