An expressive painting titled ‘Ecce Homo' (pastel on paper) by the late artist Aldo Micallef-Grimaud was recently donated to the Malta Society of Arts (MSA).

The donation was made by the artist’s daughter Glorian S Micallef-Grimaud and the depicted face of Jesus Christ will now be added to the society’s collection of sacred art.

The donation was held at the Chapel of MSA’s seat Palazzo de La Salle in Valletta, in the presence of MSA’s President Adrian Mamo, MSA’s Vice President Roderick Camilleri, MSA’s gold medal recipient Joseph Paul Cassar, Ms Micallef-Grimaud and the artist’s grand daughter Corinne.

On the day of the donation, Professor Cassar asserted that Mr Micallef-Grimaud’s works “warranted greater recognition” while underscoring the necessity for more comprehensive studies of his artistic career.

He was the driving force behind the decision to donate the 'Ecce Homo' painting to the MSA, acknowledging Mr Micallef-Grimaud’s longstanding connections with the society.

Notably, the artist had served as the MSA’s Honorary Secretary to its Committee for many years and receive the MSA’s silver medal in recognition of his contributions to the arts scene in Malta and beyond.

Who is Aldo Micallef-Grimaud?

Born on 23rd April 1925, Aldo Micallef-Grimaud specialised in portraiture and his works adorn more than 15 local and foreign churches.

His career as an artist started at the young age of 11 when his art teacher, Ramiro Cali’, recognised his talent. He recommended that Aldo enrol at the Malta School of Arts in Valletta, despite the entry age being 12. Nonetheless, he was granted an exception after drawing a  “remarkable still-life drawing.”

In his childhood, Mr Micallef-Grimaud continued studying at the school even during Benito Mussolini’s decleration of war on 10th June 1940. During air raids, he seeked refuge in the school’s lower levels.

His union with Mariuccia nee Quattromani, a fellow student of Vincent Apap at the Malta School of Art, resulted in a family of three children: Mario, Nadine, and Glorian.

In addition to his artistic pursuits, he was a respected tenor. His contribution to the visual and performing arts were officially recognised on 17th September 1992 when he was awared the silver medal of the Society of Arts for his enduring artistic achievements.