On March 20, 2024 - LuginsLand of Art, formerly known as Villa Luginsland, opened its
doors for its exhibition preview, "Space & Time," curated by renowned Slovakian set
designer and architect - Boris Kudlička and the launch of the concept set to breathe
dedicated spaces for the artistic community within the Villa which is currently under
restoration. Ministers Owen Bonnici and Minister Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi graced the
occasion, witnessing the restoration endeavours and visionary aspirations of the villa. The
project is supported by OmenaArt Foundation, founded by Omenaa Mensah, Polish
philanthropist, businesswoman, and art collector, who welcomed esteemed guests and
artists to the villa.
“For the first time, we are happy to open the doors to LuginsLand of Art . My team and I
have been working on this unique project for many months. We are excited to share the
beginning of something truly special. I have always had a profound admiration for historic
edifices. I am extremely excited to breathe new life into one of the most significant historical
sites in Malta and provide an opportunity to share a dedicated area to the artistic
community in the future” - says Omenaa Mensah.
Joanna Popiol, Director of LuginsLand of Art, underscored the meticulous conservation
efforts and fruitful collaboration with the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage,
highlighting the commitment to preserving and honouring the villa's rich heritage and
legacy.
The front part of the villa was dedicated to its long history and showcasing the ongoing
restoration works, research and efforts in preserving the historical aspects. The inaugural
exhibition ‘Space & Time’ curated by a renowned Slovakian set designer and architect -
Boris Kudlička with curatorial collaboration of Maria Galea and Joanna Sczul, showcases the
works of renowned Maltese and Polish artists and encompass both site specific
installations which have been created in line with the curatorial concept and the historic
reference of the site, as well as a curated selection of works from pre-existing series by the
artists. The visual narrative establishes an intriguing dialogue between Neo-Renaissance
architecture and Contemporary Art, aiming to create an intersection between the past and
present through intercultural exchange.
“The main inspiration for the exhibition is the villa itself, its profound history and marvellous
architecture. We invited renowned Maltese artists to create site-specific works that
represent the dialogue with the space and temporal dimensions of the villa. I am very
happy with the diversity of the collection as the artists utilise different mediums and each of
them presents their own unique perspective to the subject.“ - says the curator Boris
Kudlička
Cultural Manager Maria Galea underlines the gratitude felt as Maltese citizen in
appreciating the work being conducted to both preserve and revive such a
magnificent historical space. “It is admirable that Luginsland of Art and OmenaArt
Foundation are inviting artists to be part of it, creating an important intercultural
exchange.”
Featured Artists:
Mario Abela, Victor Agius, Matthew Attard, Norbert Attard, John Paul Azzopardi, Austin
Camilleri, Monika Falkus, Antoine Farrugia, Nicolas Grospierre, Michał Jackowski, Ida
Karkoszka, Lia Kimura, Marcin Maciejowski, Karol Palczak, Janek Simon, Nikola Vudrag,
Xawery Wolski, Jakub Julian Ziółkowski, Maurycy Gomulicki
Site specific works
The commissioned site-specific art installations at LuginsLand of Art feature the works of
Maltese artists Matthew Attard, Victor Agius, Mario Abela, and Antoine Farrugia. These
pieces integrate history, nature, and architecture, with the respect to villa's profound history.
Each artist brings a unique perspective to their work, aiming to blend with the villa’s
architectural and archaeological elements. From Matthew Attard’s digital landscapes to
Victor Agius’s sculptures, these works evoke a dialogue between the past and present.
Mario Abela’s installation prompts viewers to reflect on their impact on the world, while
Antoine Farrugia’s use of Maltese limestone pays homage to the villa’s architecture.
Together, these pieces form an intriguing display of artistic expression, inviting visitors to
explore the intersection of time and space at LuginsLand of Art.
The exhibition is open for visitors during the Educational Programme and on the selected
days: March 20th-22nd and March 25th-28th 12:00pm - 3:00pm.
Educational Programme
Alongside the exhibition, LuginsLand of Art is also organising the educational programme
to be launched on the 23rd March, which will extend until the end of May. The programme
encompasses discussion panels and workshops, each delving into various facets of art and
its relationships, including architecture, archaeology, community, and artistic legacy. These
panels feature distinguished Maltese and international artists, art historians, and art
professionals who bring their perspectives on historical, social, and anthropological issues
to the fore. The programme aims to foster an environment for discussion and offers an
opportunity to explore the villa's ongoing construction, restoration, and preservation efforts.
The Educational Programme:
Art & Architecture - 23th March
Art & Archaeology - 6th April
Art & Conservation - 4th May
Art & Technology - 18th May
Art & Legacy - 31st May
About Omenaa Mensah
Omenaa Mensah is a Polish philanthropist, businesswoman, art collector, and founder of
OmenaArt Foundation. With her rich experience, Omenaa leads worldwide projects and
initiatives in the realms of design, architecture and art. She passionately invests in emerging
artists, bolstering their growth and creativity. Motivated by her deep-seated love for art,
she takes on ambitious endeavours aimed at conserving and rejuvenating historical sites.
Her expertise has garnered accolades from stalwarts in architecture and design, including
luminaries like Boris Kudlička, Bruno Moinard, Alessandro La Spada, and Gio Pagani.
Omenaa is also devoted to emphasising the importance of social responsibility within
cultural realms. Her foundation is engaged in philanthropic activity, such as the coordination
of the Grand Charity Auction TOP CHARITY, one of the most prestigious philanthropic
events in Europe that promotes the best Polish and international artists. The initiative has
been recognised and selected by Luxury Lifestyle Awards which celebrate the best luxury
services all over the world.
Photo Credits: Brian Grech
LuginsLand of Art website: https://luginslandofart.com/
Educational Programme: https://luginslandofart.com/educational-programme-1/
Registration to view the exhibition: https://forms.gle/iJz6kqSug5Ujzip77
LuginsLand of Art Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555348486630
LuginsLand of Art Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luginsland_of_art
OmenaArt Foundation website: https://omenaartfoundation.com/en/
For more information contact: alicja@villaluginsland.com
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