The Art of Mario Portelli

St. Peter in chains Birzebbugia Band Club organized a National art exhibition-competition for the occasion for the local feast. A total of 25 participants, sculptors and artists took part in this event.
It was no easy task for the jury to choose the winner  as the works of art were of highstandard.  Further more the theme for this competition was leftopen to the artists , thus leaving one's imagination free,which in turn  led to a wide variety of work. Fantasy, abstract, modern, classic and surrealism art work, all cover different aspect of subjects such as still lives, landscapes, seascapes, sacred, architectural,historical, figuree drawing where expressed in painting and sculpture!  Different mediums where used, from the traditionalwatercolors, oils,acrylics to lime stone and even plastic bottles!

Hard to believe!

At the time of the announcement, for the most voted and best art work, Mario simply pointed out to me that he was already happy with his participation and that his work was accepted to be exhibited with those of such nominated Maltese Artists. "This is already great for me! I'm more than happy to be here!", while retreating outside, with a big smile to one of the balconies to light up a cigarette!

The exhibition was opened by the former Minister for Tourism and culture Dr. Francis Zammit Dimech. When the time came to announce the winner everybody fell silent, till the name was announced....Mario Portelli with his work, 'The final counter attack'!!

I've went straight to the balcony where I've found Mario still puffing his cigarette! He didn't believed me but when he heard his name repeatedly being announced, he came to his senses and went to pick his prize! "It's a my pleasure for me that I won this event and this is going to boost for sure my love towards art. Its also my great honor that I've participated with excellent friends who contributed with the same thoughts like mine  all in the name of art!". These where the words that Mario said to the guests after receiving his award.

The Final Counter Attack