Modern Art, Tourism, and Undiscovered Artists | Alternative Fruit

Blues Of Desperation by Paul Cosquieri

A new themed arts event is taking place at the Gibraltar Exhibition of Modern Art. This unique island community off the coast of Spain is actually a British territory. Since becoming British in the 1700s, the island has evolved to express a culture rich in British heritage yet with specific locale related quirks. A striking selection of works can be found at the GEMA, which represent input from people originating in all aspects of this diverse and rich culture. With nearby Spain, France, Portugal, and many other neighbouring nations to each of those, the flow of ideas and design into the Gibraltar artistic vocabulary are far reaching. From the signing of the Treaty of Utrecht in the Netherlands during 1713, until the present day, British culture has dominated in this isolated yet well connected geographical location. 


Every Wednesday, GEMA showcases works by unknown artists of equal calibre to the well-known icons. Perhaps already showing promise in their local field, and reaching more than average commendation from various sources, the works on display will represent a wide selection of Gibraltar based talent. The President of The Fine Arts Association gets the first date with this new initiative. Paul Cosquieri shows off his latest project, “Paintings To Dance To”. Local Culture Minister Steven Linares was present at the opening, stating:

“We want to open it up and bring in the artists”. Gibraltar Chronicle.


It's planned that opening up the GEMA schedule to fresh works will help continue the story of the island for the new generation and tourists who already make the exhibition centre a place to see (browse flight deals!). Even local schools have been included, where a treasure hunt was made to get the children familiar with the entire building. By walking around and following the clues, viewing the art on display would have been part of the process. 


With the Paintings To Dance To exhibit, artist Paul Cosquieri has unified his love for painting and music. By expressing vivid movement and vibrant energy in the works, describing the sensation of hearing music through visual art is a wonderful cross-genre communication. Cosquieri has said that he's not looking to sell the works primarily, as he simply wants to attract visitors and encourage more artists to stand up and be counted.  

​The postage stamps from Gibraltar are really interesting, check them out!