The Valletta Cultural Agency is holding a sculpture exhibition titled It’s All Paperwork by Antoine Farrugia at the Parliament of Malta.

The artworks will portray a transformation of the Maltese Globigerina Limestone into what can be perceived as ‘almost paper’.

Although the name seems to be referring to paper, this exhibition will not showcase any paper but the works are made of limestone that is crafted so carefully and in an extremely precise manner that at first glance it gives the impression of  paper. This is reminiscent of the term ‘trompe l’oeil’ which is usually used to describe paintings that are so realistic that they deceive the eye.

Antoine Farrugia’s extraordinary talent and skill are undebatable. Farrugia hails from Mqabba where he maufactured fireworks for several years. Limestone quarrying is also very much associated with this village where Farrugia’s’s father and other family members  worked over the decades, greatly contribing to the sculptor’s love affair with globigerina limestone.

Although his appreciation of art began from an early age, Farrugia started scultpting in his 30s. He studies under the guidance of Anton Grech at the School of Art where he obtained his Diploma in Fine Arts.

His research and work on this so-called theme “papers” started around five years ago and Farrugia looks foward to showcase these original art pieces in this and prestigious exhibition.

This exhibition is being held under the patronage of Hon. Anġlu Farrugia M.P. Speaker of the House of Representatives in Malta.