Interpreting the Maltese prehistoric goddess

Abstract

Despite its size, Malta is extremely rich in its prehistoric archaeological heritage. During the course of their careers local as well as foreign artists were and continue to be fascinated and influenced by prehistoric art. The well-preserved state and beauty of the Maltese Temples and t]heir artifacts still stimulate the imagination of artists to create works of art that show not only their personal reflections, but also their ‘collective’ psychic qualities. In their work, a number of contemporary artists interpret prehistoric symbolism, particularly the image of Maltese Prehistoric Goddesses. Two foreign artists, Jeni Caruana and Raphael Labro, made Malta their home and are particularly enthusiastic about working on themes inspired by the Maltese Prehistoric Goddess. Their work is not just a topographical interpretation of the famous statuettes found in prehistoric temples. Rather, the artists employ pictorial means to effect a transforming connection with the emotional or spiritual urge within the self.