What is MICAS
MICAS (Malta’s International Contemporary Art Space) is Malta’s new venue for contemporary art exhibitions and cultural events. Established as part of Malta’s commitment to enhancing its cultural infrastructure, MICAS serves as a platform for both local and international artists to showcase innovative works across various mediums. The space is designed to foster dialogue between artists, audiences, and the broader community.
MICAS aims to challenge conventional notions of art by presenting cutting-edge exhibitions that explore current social, political, and aesthetic themes. With a focus on accessibility and engagement, the institution strives to make contemporary art approachable for visitors of all backgrounds, from art enthusiasts to curious tourists.
Where is MICAS Located, the History of the Fortifications, and the Architectural Challenge
MICAS is housed within the historic fortifications at Floriana, specifically in the Ospizio complex and surrounding grounds. These impressive limestone structures date back to the Knights of St. John period in the 18th century, originally serving defensive and later humanitarian purposes as part of Malta’s extensive military heritage. Look closely and you’ll find graffiti from this period carved into the wall.
The architectural challenge of transforming these ancient fortifications into a modern art space was considerable. The project required a delicate balance between preserving the site’s historical integrity while creating functional, contemporary exhibition spaces with proper lighting, climate control, and accessibility features. The design solutions complement rather than compete with the existing structures.
The result is a compelling juxtaposition of old and new: rough-hewn limestone walls alongside sleek, modern surfaces; vaulted ceilings housing state-of-the-art lighting systems; and ancient ramparts providing dramatic backdrops for contemporary installations. The design successfully honours Malta’s architectural heritage while creating a world-class venue for contemporary art.
Notable Artworks
MICAS hosts a rotating collection of significant contemporary artworks from Maltese and international artists. The exhibition spaces feature installations, sculptures, paintings, digital art, and multimedia works that reflect current artistic trends and concerns.
A highlight of MICAS’s collection is Joana Vasconcelos’ celebrated “Tree of Life” installation. This monumental work, exemplifies the Portuguese artist’s distinctive approach to transforming everyday objects into extraordinary artistic statements. Standing at an impressive height of over 15 metres, the “Tree of Life” is constructed from thousands of hand-crafted leaves, textile elements, and LED lights, creating a vibrant, luminous structure that merges traditional craftsmanship with contemporary vision. The piece explores themes of growth, renewal, and the interconnection between nature and human creativity, themes that resonate powerfully within MICAS’s historic fortification setting. The installation harmonises with both natural surroundings and architectural elements, making it a perfect embodiment of MICAS’s mission to bridge historical contexts with cutting-edge artistic expression.
Another striking work in MICAS’s collection is Ray Pitre’s “Figure in Rods,” a masterful sculpture that exemplifies the Canadian-born artist’s exploration of the human form through minimalist industrial materials. Created in a distinctive horizontal posture, the sculpture depicts a human figure composed of numerous metal rods that appear to float in space, creating a captivating interplay between solidity and weightlessness. The work’s careful balance and arrangement of metallic elements transform rigid industrial materials into an unexpectedly fluid and organic representation of the human body.
The museum also maintains partnerships with major international institutions, allowing it to host works by renowned contemporary artists alongside emerging talents from Malta and beyond. This curatorial approach ensures a dynamic, ever-changing experience for visitors.
Local Context
MICAS represents a significant milestone in Malta’s cultural evolution. While the island nation has a rich artistic heritage dating back millennia, from prehistoric temples to baroque masterpieces, contemporary art has historically had fewer dedicated spaces. MICAS fills this gap, serving as an anchor for Malta’s growing contemporary art scene.
The institution plays a vital role in nurturing local talent by providing Maltese artists with international-standard exhibition opportunities and connecting them with the global art community. For many emerging Maltese artists, MICAS offers a crucial stepping stone between local galleries and the international stage.
Beyond its impact on artists, MICAS contributes to Malta’s broader cultural renaissance. Alongside other initiatives like the Valletta European Capital of Culture 2018 and the revitalization of historic sites, MICAS helps position Malta as a destination for cultural tourism, attracting visitors interested in more than just the island’s beaches and historical attractions.
The space also serves as a community hub, engaging local residents through educational programs, community projects, and public events that make contemporary art relevant to everyday life in Malta.
Visiting Times
MICAS welcomes visitors Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with extended hours until 8:00 PM on Fridays. The space is closed on Mondays except for public holidays.
Special exhibitions may have different opening hours, and it’s advisable to check the official MICAS website before planning your visit. Guided tours are available at scheduled times throughout the day, offering deeper insights into both the artworks and the historic building. Check out public transport options to get there.
Accessibility at Malta’s Contemporary Art Space MICAS
MICAS is committed to making contemporary art accessible to all visitors. The renovated fortress includes elevators, ramps, and accessible pathways throughout most exhibition areas, though some parts of the historic structure have limited accessibility due to preservation requirements.
The centre offers audio guides, large-print materials, and tactile experiences for visitors with visual impairments. Special tours for visitors with different abilities can be arranged in advance, and service animals are welcome throughout the facility.
Staff members are trained to assist visitors with specific needs, and the centre continues to improve its accessibility features based on visitor feedback.
Gift Shop at MICAS
The MICAS gift shop offers a thoughtfully curated selection of items related to the exhibition program and contemporary Maltese culture. Visitors can purchase exhibition catalogs, art books, prints, and postcards featuring works from current and past shows.
The shop also stocks unique items created through collaborations between MICAS and local artisans, including limited-edition ceramics, textiles, and jewelry inspired by the exhibitions. These pieces provide visitors with the opportunity to take home a piece of Malta’s contemporary art scene.
For those interested in deepening their understanding of contemporary art, the shop offers a selection of publications on art theory, criticism, and history, with a particular focus on Mediterranean artistic traditions and their evolution.
Malta’s contemporary art space, MICAS, represents a bold vision for the island’s cultural future, seamlessly blending historical architecture with forward-thinking artistic expression. As visitors experience the thought-provoking works housed within these ancient walls, they become part of an ongoing dialogue between past and present, tradition and innovation. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply curious about Malta’s evolving cultural landscape, MICAS offers a uniquely Maltese perspective on contemporary art that shouldn’t be missed on your next visit to the Mediterranean island.