World-famous Alain Despert has opened an exhibition at the Auberge D’Italie which will be open to the public for a few weeks only.
Despert, reknowned for his Absolut Vodka image, has a technique that draws you in for closer inspection. His work more fascinating the closer you get.
Materials include acrylics and enamel, with dots featuring heavily. The application of the differing materials in different ways give depth, reflection, texture and shadow.
My favourite depiction in his works, if I had to choose one, are the flowers. Reminiscent of Charles Rene Mackintosh but definitively Despert.
His view of local scenes we take for granted is refreshing. You cannot help buy smile when you see his work; bright, mischievous and enigmatic, but when you see his interpretation of Mdina, a picture we see so often, or his version of the Maltese flag, you really feel an affinity. The flag, a simple duo of colours, is shown in patchwork, with waves, stars and freehand and uniform shapes that somehow tell you of the variety there is on our small isles, which I have to say are all the richer, for having an artist of this calibre residing here.
See more about Alain Despert in this video
