ĠUF is a project exploring and celebrating contemporary motherhood through the visual art of Rebecca Bonaci. Motherhood and the figure of the mother are being examined in a cultural-historical, philosophical, psychological and artistic depth. The cultural-historical and societal changes that have changed the social position of women over this vast timeframe, have also changed the cultural norms and expectations associated with motherhood.

Referencing the Maltese word for ‘womb’, ĠUF explores the theme of contemporary motherhood, informed by the rich prehistoric remains and rituals found in the Maltese archipelago. The iconography and imagery from the primordial period will be revalued and interpreted by Bonaci and her curatorial team, with the artworks presented in dialogue with artefacts from the period. Bonaci will also draw from her personal experience of family bonding, femininity, recent social history, childbearing and motherhood so as to present a dialogue between past and present.

Satellite Events:

Artist/Curatorial Tour and Workshop for Children

Saturday 18th November

10.30am – 12pm

Venue: Space C
Age: 7-12
Free, booking required

Mother Nurture aims to help children recognise their creative potential by providing them with an opportunity to tap into their emotions and feelings. The goal of this event is for children to create a visual representation of the individuals in their lives who bring them comfort and security. They will be guided to explore their emotions and communicate their feelings in an artistic way. With a focus on contemporary motherhood, the workshop will encompass diverse domestic setups. The workshop consists of a mini-tour and discussion led by artist Rebecca Bonaci and curator Sarah Chircop. This will be followed by a hands-on workshop led by visual artist, author, and art educator Ryan Falzon. During the event, children will be provided with a variety of art supplies, from paints to brushes, as well as diverse surfaces such as paper and canvases. This session will serve as a nurturing space for participants to contemplate the importance of safety and love in their lives, all while cherishing the relationships they hold dear. This is a chance for participants to showcase their artistic flair and extend their gratitude towards those they trust. Participants are encouraged to bring their own apron in case the child opts to use paint.

Unattended Children Policy

To ensure the safest environment for our young audiences, Fondazzjoni Kreattivita’ does not allow children to be left unattended during any performance or activity. Guardians should always be present before, during, and after an event.

Click here to register

Curatorial/artist tour followed by publication launch and a panel discussion

Sunday 26th November 2023

Exhibition tour |  11am – 11.45am

Catalogue launch followed by a panel discussion |  12pm –  1pm

Venue: Space C

In correlation with artist Rebecca Bonaci’s exhibition ĠUF, a publication including a curatorial introduction by Sarah Chircop, as well as essays on motherhood by Loranne Vella, Giuliana Fenech, and Elise Billiard will be presented. The event will feature a panel discussion, delving into the profound journey of contemporary motherhood, and examining it within various contexts. It will analyse the cultural-historical and societal shifts that have significantly altered the social standing of women over time, subsequently influencing cultural norms and expectations associated with motherhood. A list of speakers will be announced soon.

Click here to register

Creative Team:

Artist
Rebecca Bonaci

Curator
Sarah Chircop

Project Advisor
Ryan Falzon

Image by: Lisa Attard

Supported by Arts Council Malta.