UNIVERSITY OF MALTA
Institute of Maltese Studies
M.A. in Maltese Studies
January/February 2010 Session of Examinations
IMS5004 – Modern and Contemporary Art
Saturday, 23rd January 2010
Duration: 2 hours
9.15hrs – 11.15hrs
Please answer any TWO questions.
Page 1 of 5
1.
Works of art may provide a unique way of seeing the past but, because they are so
much less specific than words or documents, can prove harder to penetrate, and
thus to trust, as historical evidence. Discuss this problem, using ‘The Visit’ by
Antoine de Favray (born France 1706, Malta 1744 - 1761, 1771 - 1798), to
illustrate aspects of your argument.
Page 2 of 5
2.
Describe how artists have contributed to shaping the idea of St Paul as patron saint
of Malta, with reference to the two works of art illustrated below.
St Paul Polyptych, High Altar
Circle of Luis Borassa, Spain (13601426)
Tempera on panel
Cathedral Museum, Mdina
Question 2 cont/
Page 3 of 5
Question 2 cont/
The Shipwreck of St Paul
(High Altar)
Stefano Erardi (1630-1716)
Oil on canvas
St Paul’s Collegiate Church, Rabat
Page 4 of 5
3.
Practically a decade before the 1814 Peace Treaty of Paris that confirmed Malta
as a British possession, the British began to introduce new artistic trends. These
styles were particularly evident in architecture. By including examples of
churches, buildings and public monuments, show how the British presence began
to make itself felt in the Maltese islands in the 19th century, keeping in mind
revivalist and inter-denominational contents.
4.
What has struck you about the art scene in Malta during the 19th century? By
providing examples of works of art and architecture, discuss the ways in which
this period and its artistic developments have thrown light on your ideas of
Maltese artistic culture.
5.
It is evident that Catholicism was still a very popular subject in 20th century
Maltese art. Discuss this matter by showing an understanding of the different
approaches and media used by the artists. Key artists, different styles and
artworks should be analysed and referred to throughout the essay.
6.
One can easily argue that a new development in Maltese art was taking place in
the Post-War years. Discuss key artists, artists’ groups and relevant changes
occurring in this period.
7.
In 1926 the Government School of Art was founded. Discuss the new
developments in art education through the decades by mentioning tutors, students
and achievements of the Government School of Art.
8.
Abstract Art flourished in the second half of the 20th century. Numerous artists
from different artistic backgrounds developed their own individual style. Show a
relevant understanding of such development by analyzing this idiom from its
early phase until the last decades.
Page 5 of 5