
JAPAN ART FESTIVAL
IN MALTA 2026
EXHIBITION OF ART FROM JAPAN AND MALTA
The Japan Art Festival 2026 in Malta invites visitors to experience traditional and contemporary Japanese and Maltese art.
Around 245 Japanese artists will present approximately 317 works spanning a wide range of disciplines, including calligraphy, photography, painting (oil, acrylic, nihonga, ink and watercolour), poetry (haiku, tanka and senryu), literature, sculpture, craft art, and more. The exhibition brings together a variety of themes, reflecting the richness and diversity of Japan’s artistic landscape.
A special feature of the exhibition is the presentation of 30 works by Maltese artists, including 25 paintings and 5 photographic pieces. These works create a dialogue between Japanese and Maltese artistic expression.
Despite their different cultural backgrounds, all the participating artists are united by a shared passion for art. Through this exhibition, visitors will encounter artistic perspectives shaped by Japanese and Maltese culture.
As part of the Maltese–Japanese cultural exchange, 30 artworks by Maltese artists will be exhibited at the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa from 25 to 29 November 2026.
WORKSHOP
Calligraphy on an UCHIWA-fan

Saturday, 4 July, 3 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Admission free / No age limit / No reservations / Available while supplies last
UCHIWA is a flat round paper fan with a bamboo, that is a tool for blowing wind with hands. It is an essential item in Japan’s hot summer.
In this workshop you can create your own special fan by writing Japanese calligraphy on the UCHIWA. Come and join the fun and take your unique UCHIWA home!
MUSIC
Sunday Concert with Japanese Songs
Sunday, 5 July, 3 p.m.
Admission free / No reservations
Enjoy a varied programme featuring Japanese folk music and art songs.
We also warmly invite the audience to join in dancing the traditional “Ise Ondo” together — a simple and joyful dance that everyone can take part in.

Masahiro Taniguchi, Bass
Japanese bass-baritone and choral conductor. Alongside his wide-ranging musical activities, he is also engaged in projects that promote cultural exchange between Malta and Japan.

Mediterranean Conference Centre Sacra Infermeria Hall
Triq l-Isptar, Il-Belt VallettaVLT 1645, Malta (google map)
www.mcc.com.mt
OPENING HOURS
FRIDAY 3 JULY 10:00-19:00
SATURDAY 4 JULY 10:00-19:00
SUNDAY 5 JULY 10:00-17:00
FREE ADMISSION

