The Malta International Contemporary Art Space: Malta’s Beacon of Art and Culture
The Malta International Contemporary Art Space (MICAS), is a shining beacon of contemporary art and culture on the picturesque island of Malta. The facility, which is housed within the restored 17th-century Ospizio complex in Floriana, offers over 1,400 m² of gallery space and outdoor sculpture gardens. The architectural design of MICAS, with its modern interventions and natural light, blends perfectly with the historical bastions, providing a unique platform for global creativity to converge with Malta’s rich heritage. For more information, visit Here.
Global Platform for Maltese Art: The Space We Inhabit
As part of its goal to foster dialogue between Malta and the international art world, MICAS hosted its third major exhibition, The Space We Inhabit, in June 2025. This exhibition showcased the works of six renowned Maltese artists – Caesar Attard, Vince Briffa, Joyce Camilleri, Austin Camilleri, Anton Grech, and Pierre Portelli – and covered all three floors of the gallery. The artists explored the theme of space, its real and imagined dimensions, and by extension, ideas of place and belonging.
Phyllis Muscat, the Executive Chairperson of MICAS, described the exhibition as a testament to how MICAS provides a platform for local artists to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with their international peers. Meanwhile, Artistic Director Edith Devaney praised the intellectual rigour and bold execution of the exhibition, noting that each artist contributed a distinct point of view to the narrative of Maltese contemporary identity.
Retail Therapy at MICAS
Apart from its exhibitions, another highlight of MICAS is its gift shop, which reflects the very heartbeat of Malta’s creative community. The store offers a range of products from locally crafted perfumes and hand-poured candles to scarves and leather-bound journals. Each item carries a story of Maltese culture, reimagined for modern life, making shopping at MICAS more of an experience of curating a slice of Malta’s artistry to take home.
MICAS: An Experiential Destination
MICAS is unique due to its dual role as a cultural hub and a tourist destination. The museum’s architecture offers panoramic views of Valletta’s fortifications, seamlessly integrating contemporary design elements into the island’s historic fabric. Its programming extends beyond exhibitions, including talks, performances, and educational initiatives that connect visitors with Malta’s creative heartbeat. For discerning travellers, MICAS is not just a stop on the itinerary, but a space to pause, reflect, and immerse in Malta’s evolving cultural identity.
In conclusion, whether you are drawn to MICAS for its cutting-edge exhibitions, its world-class roster of international collaborations, or its beautifully curated gift shop, the experience promises to linger long after your visit.
