Out & About

French visionary artist get President's Award

By Gozopolitan News
Malta, Aug 22, 2007 - 21:46:48 PM

Raphael Labro has been chosen to show two of his works; The Yogi Terra Matta and The Meditating Terra Matta at the “Two Centuries of the Eloquence of the Female Figure” exhibition, at the 27th event of the 'Malta International Art Biennale' which is showcase artwork from 105 nations. The event took place last Wednesday August 22nd 2007. At the event, Raphael Labro received the special honour of the President's Award at VILLA TEMPRA Sir Harry Luke Street, Mgarr, Malta.

The award was presented by Dame Françoise Tempra, founder and president of the Malta International Art Biennale, art historian and author of over 60 books and catalogues. Labro’s painting "The Meditating Goddess" has been chosen to be part of the permanent exhibition of the Tempra Museum, the only contemporary art museum in Malta located in the Municipal Council, Church Square, Mgarr.

It holds an impressive collection of 421 works by 247 artists from 61 nations, including works by Henry Moore, Salvador Dali, Giacomo de Pass and a significant collection by American abstract artists. The museum is open Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For further information Tel: (+356) 2152 0011

Raphael Labro celebrates the feminine symbol in his 'earth to universe' contemporary expressionist paintings. His signature representations are present in the two masterpieces being shown at the Biennale.

Labro presents a future that moulds the earth with the universe, using colours and symbols, to a world that is alive, an environment flourishing, and a culture which embraces the natural gifts which endows and surrounds it.

This exhibition and fine honour follows Labro's successful opening of his "Rebirth" exhibition and fundraising event at the Sinclair Stevenson Gallery on Saturday 4th August 2007. This fund raiser was a great success with one painting fetching 1000 Lm, and proceeds benefiting 'The Friends of the Sick and Elderly in Gozo' and the 'Tree 4 Gharb LC' ; a project close to Labro's heart.

Prior to the opening of "Rebirth" The French Ambassador to Malta Jean-Marc Rives donated a tree to Gharb, which was been planted near the Carmen Grima Museum. Labro planted an olive tree himself on behalf of the French Mayor of La Gaude. David Apap the Mayor of Gharb has also planted a tree.

Labro hopes to set a precedent for all, including politicians, to donate and plant trees; as part of his overall vision for renewing and celebrating Mother Earth and the future of mankind. All tree donations are accepted by 'Tree 4 Gharb LC' Triq il-Vizitazzjoni, Gharb - GRB 1044, which children from local school will plant near its beautiful San Dimitri chapel.

Labro extends a very special thank you to his sponsors:
The Ambassade de France de Malte, Alliance Francaise de Malte, Malta Tourism Authority, Gozo Tourism Association, Gharb Local Council, Forestis, Mumm Champagne, Pernod, Pebeo, Duvel, 35°South, Attard and Co., Dragonara Casino Barriere St. Julians. Westin Resort, Mecap, Peugeot, Renault, Frank Salt, Chez Amand, Salvina, Jeffrey's and, of course, the village of Gharb, and thanks to his many supporters.

The "Rebirth" Exhibition runs through to September 4th and is open from Monday to Saturday from 1100am - 1230pm and from 1800- 2000 pm. at the Sinclair Stevenson Gallery, 59, Trux Street, Gharb

For further private viewing and information, as well as more on Labro's special projects please visit the Raphael Labro official website www.raphaellabro.com or call the gallery or Labro Studio at +356 9985 5103

Sophie Dali

Photos from Malta International Art Biennale

Rebirth Proudly sponsored by: