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Alfred Aquilina is 69 years old and lives in Attard.
How did you get started?
When I was young and worked for the family business I was always inclined towards design and had a passion towards art. Later on in life, when I set up my own business this trait came in handy since some of my services and products related to artworks and hand-crafted items. Now that I have retired from work I have time on my hands to develop further this passion of mine that has been close to my heart since childhood.
What genre do you consider your work to be?
I consider myself to be quite eclectic and a lot of time the genre depends on my mood or state of mind. This is also reflected in my art since I used a varied range of mediums and techniques. I can’t solely consider myself as a painter or a sculptor as art is a communication tool that can be expressed in many forms and shapes.
Describe your work in less than ten words.
Mostly versatile, bold, noticeable, innovative and with a clear message.
Where was your first exhibition held?
My first exhibition was held at the crypt of Saint Sebastien Church in Qormi in 1975. The exhibition was mainly composed of artwork done by Filigree (silver-line).
How long have you been practicing your art?
I have been painting for the last 25 year, however painting is just one of the mediums I use. I personally prefer to do ceramic work to communicate my art, moreover during the years I used other mediums such as gilding, stained glass and filigree work.
Which is your favorite from amongst your own artworks?
Is difficult to choose from all the art pieces that I have created since they all communicate and express something different such as a particular mood, feeling and state of mind. However, if I had to select one piece that has something extra over they others I would choose a piece of ceramic work which I called APEX that is very close to my heart. This work was my first ceramic work using the ‘Raku’ technique and it revolves around the notion of self-actualization of an individual that is the fulcrum of oneself. – A picture of this work in included in the photos provided.
Whose artist’s work are you most inspired by?
Mostly I am attracted to Michelangelo and Van Gogh when it comes to paintings and the human figure. As with ceramics, I don’t have any particular favorite and mostly there I follow my instinct and creativity.
If you weren’t an artist, what would you be?
If I was not an artist I would become a writer or a notary.
What is the epitome of happiness for you?
Make the most of what you have and be happy with what you have achieved
What are you working on at the moment?
I am working on a ceramic slab in clay
Are you a morning person or do you come alive at night?
I would rather opt for mornings since I can observe the natural light reflecting on the various elements that surround me.
How many coffees a day? Don’t embellish
Not more than two….
Sunday can be very productive for some and unproductive for others?
Sunday is a relaxing day and used for family time, however creative ideas can come at any time.
Wine or cheese?
Wine…
If you were given a million Euros what would you indulge yourself with?
A cruise around the world with all my family including my little dog Dino
Favourite place to holiday?
I have traveled to quite a few places around the world, however London is my favourite.
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