The exhibition brings together photographers’ shots documenting Rockestra over the years and creates a visual memory of one of Malta’s most established live music events
Arts Council Malta has launched Rockestra: The Evolution, aphoto exhibition that narrates Rockestra’s history through the photographic lenses of professional photographers who attended and documented Rockestra throughout the years.
Malta’s President, her Excellency, Myriam Spiteri Debono, President Emeritus, George Abela, under whose presidency Rockestra began to be organised, and Dr Luke Dalli, Executive Chair of Arts Council Malta, were present at the launch, together with the artists and other guests.
The exhibition is being held at the Malta Fairs and Conventions Centre (MFCC) as part of Rockestra 2026. It brings together a selection of photos that document different moments throughout the history of the concert – from exhibitions and the musicians, to the audiences, moments captured behind the scenes, the production, and atmosphere, the latter becoming an integral part of this annual concert over the last years.
The exhibition is the result of an open call for photographers by Arts Council Malta. The open call called on photographers who documented previous editions of Rockestra through their photography work, to submit their work for consideration. The final selection of photographs from the submitted photos was made by Arts Council Malta.
The created collection focuses not only on the exhibition in itself but also builds a visual memory of how this concert has developed and grown over the years. The photos show the scale and energy of Rockestra as well as the moments that the public often does not see, like the work that goes on behind the scenes and the individuals who helped create the Rockestra identity.
Her Excellency Myriam Spiteri Debono recognised the work done by the Presidents Emeritae ever since Rockestra began to be organised in 2009 through the initiative of President Emeritus George Abela. This work has led to Rockestra being highly deserving of its current reputation as a musical event of the highest quality. The President also thanked all those who dedicated their time and effort towards Rockestra and all Rockestra attendees. It is thanks to their contributions that the Malta Community Chest Fund can keep assisting all those who turn to it for help.
Dr Luke Dalli, Executive Chair of Arts Council Malta said, “Rockestra is not just what you see on stage. It is also the audience, the preparations, the moments that occur behind the scenes, the emotions and the energy. Through this exhibition, we are shining the spotlight on those moments while also recognising the contributions of the photographers who, over the years, have helped keep this story alive.
Photography isn’t just a way of documenting things. It is also an artistic form in itself. Every photographer chooses the moment, the perspective and the way he or she narrates the story through a single image. When these images come together, they become part of a collective memory showing us how Rockestra has grown and evolved over the years.”
This exhibition reflects Arts Council Malta’s wider strategic commitment towards strengthening professional artistic practices, gives more visibility to creative practitioners and recognises their contribution to Malta’s cultural life. Arts Council Malta’s Strategy 2030 positions professional development as one of the three guiding pillars of the Council’s work together with cultural rights and internationalisation. The Strategy also emphasises the importance of fair and sustainable work conditions, the recognition of artistic practices, and the creation of clearer professional pathways in the cultural and creative sectors.
Rockestra: The Evolution can be enjoyed by the audience the same evening of the Rockestra as the exhibition will be accessible to the public on entering the MFCC. Stamped copies of the photos will be given to the respective photographers after the event. Each of the photographers will have copyright.
Rockestra: The Evolution will be held on the 26th September at MFCC in Ta’ Qali together with the Rockestra concert. The concert is being held in aid of the Malta Community Chest Fund. For more information, please visit https://artscouncilmalta.org.
