International residencies are not only about producing artwork; they are about learning how to navigate different cultures, perspectives, and ways of thinking. Sometimes the challenges themselves become just as important as the artistic outcomes.

One of the most rewarding parts of the residency was seeing how people reacted to my work. My anime-inspired sculptural abstract pieces generated a lot of curiosity because many residents and visitors described them as something they had never encountered before. It was interesting seeing people connect anime culture with abstract contemporary art in ways I had always hoped they would.

The support from Arts Council Malta made this opportunity financially achievable and allowed me to fully commit to the residency experience. More importantly, it reinforced the idea that Maltese artists should continue exploring opportunities beyond our borders, even when the path feels uncertain.

In less than a week I’ll be heading to Kobe, Japan for my very first artist residency with AiRK! This project is also supported by Arts Council Malta, and I couldn’t be more grateful for the opportunity to take my work across the world. Japan has been a huge inspiration behind my art through anime and manga, so being able to experience the culture firsthand feels incredibly special.