New collaboration aims to increase visibility and professional development opportunities for creatives within the publishing industry
Arts Council Malta (ACM) and the National Book Council (NBC) have signed an agreement to strengthen support for Maltese illustrators and graphic designers working in the publishing sector. This three-year collaboration will introduce a series of initiatives aimed at increasing professional development opportunities, expanding international visibility and fostering greater integration between the arts and literature.
The partnership places a strong emphasis on education and exposure, and offers financial support for participation in the London Book Fair while supporting major events such as the Malta Book Festival and the National Book Prize.
Mary Ann Cauchi, Arts Council Malta’s Chief Operating Officer for Funding and Strategy, outlined the wider impact of the initiative: “The vital role that publishing and literature play in shaping Malta’s cultural and creative sectors is set out in our Strategy 2025. ACM’s collaboration with the NBC is a strategic step towards strengthening the publishing industry in Malta, fostering innovation in book design and illustration, and expanding readership and literacy among the general public. This initiative we empower local writers, illustrators and publishers with resources, training and improved funding opportunities, thereby ensuring that Maltese stories and voices reach wider audiences, both locally and internationally.”
As part of the agreement ACM will contribute a total annual investment of €22,000 to support the following initiatives:
- The ‘From Illustration to Book’ exhibition at the Malta Book Festival. This flagship event highlights the creative process involved in book illustration and highlights the work of local and international illustrators;
- Educational and professional development initiatives focused on book illustration and design;
- International mobility grants enabling four Maltese illustrators and graphic designers to attend the London Book Fair annually;
- The Illustrator Recognition Award, consisting of a €2,500 grant to support professional development as part of the National Book Prize.
NBC’S CEO, Mark Camilleri, stressed the long-term vision of this collaboration: “This initiative is a testament to our commitment to the publishing sector, not only through books but also through the visual narratives that bring them to life. By creating platforms for illustrators to showcase their work, both locally and internationally, we aim to position Maltese talent on the global stage.”
In addition to financial and logistical support, NBC and ACM will jointly organise networking events, seminars and literary sessions in a speed-dating format at the Malta Book Festival, thus bringing together artists, publishers and industry professionals. The NBC will also provide exhibition space for a number of illustrators, ensuring greater public engagement with their work.
The agreement highlights the importance of fostering cross-sectoral collaboration to enhance Malta’s creative and publishing industries while cultivating a promising ecosystem in which artists, illustrators and publishers can innovate, collaborate and grow together.
