In this cabinet of curiosities installation, the conceptual framework investigates the myth of abundance of water, exhibiting a multidimensional journey that reveals Malta’s complex relationship with its geological and cultural landscapes and its water resources. Formed from limestone and clay, the island’s arid terrain, characterized by jagged coastlines and undulating valleys, naturally resists water retention. Despite this, historical and modern interventions—from ancient aqueducts to modern desalination plants—have perpetuated an image of water sufficiency. Thus, this work invites a reflection on the natural resources that are presumed to be limitless.

AP Valletta is a research-based architecture and design firm located in Malta. Their collaborative, multidisciplinary team intertwines sustainable adaptive reuse strategies with traditional architectural services, working on a vast range of projects. Over the last 30 years, the firm has widened its expertise on projects of varying scale and complexity, in Malta and overseas, and it has been particularly successful in the development of projects located within historical environments.

Where does the għonnella come from? This question insipidly hangs over the landscapes of our local histories, triggering research, citation, and speculation. It has been asked more than answered: scholars have been at it for decades, trying to uncover all possible sources. This installation is about documenting the history of the Maltese historical garment, but it is also about living in its memory and how we speak about and imag(in)e our past. It collects the fragments of a country’s cultural cosmology and marries them with the contemporary moment while recording every possible variation, both historical as well as reimagined.

Luke Azzopardi’s methodology of fusing together powerful visuals, academic research, and artisanal design is what distinguishes his work as one of Malta’s foremost fashion artists. This translates into the ethos of the maison, a self-sustainable atelier embracing concept-based fashion and beauty. Looking at fashion as an art object, wearable products are presented as results of investigations into art history, and studio events are designed as immersive cultural experiences. The Studio focuses on the idea of timeless elegance and is a proud champion of the slow fashion movement – upholding the highest ethical standards while keeping their environmental impact to a minimum.

Introducing Step by Step by Bx, shoes that embody sustainability and innovation for Gen Z. Crafted from 99% everyday waste, these unique, one-of-a-kind shoes challenge the norms of mass production. Designed with the distinct stylistic preferences of Gen Z in mind, they reflect a generation deeply committed to environmental change. Each pair is a statement against the inherited chaos, a step towards a better world. Step by Step speaks the language of those who believe in transforming waste into value, one step at a time.

Becky Grech, Bx, is a Maltese shoe designer and industrial design lecturer. She discovered shoemaking in 2013, leading to self-guided learning, apprenticeships, and formal training, including a London course. Dedicated to preserving shoemaking art, Becky’s diverse design reflects her character and constant experimentation. She launched BX Design, focusing on sustainability, innovation, and staying true to oneself. Her work goes beyond creating shoes; she nurtures the craft, shares her knowledge, and researches Malta’s shoemaking history. Her shoes have also won her recognitions, including the Premju Ġieħ l-Artiġjanat Malti 2023 in the Textiles category awarded by the Malta Crafts Foundation.