George Abdilla's first solo photographic exhibition

In the opening George Abdilla’s first solo exhibition, consisting of a 32 piece collection featuring Jazz portraits of various artists who performed at the Malta Jazz Festival’s past three  editions, Dr de Marco had only words of admiration and praise. “George has managed to capture the ambiance, the unique expressions, and feelings present during each performance.  These photos, make you feel that you are live in front of the stage.”

George Abdilla has photographed the Jazz Festival since its 2nd edition way back in 1991.  However, only works from the last 3 editions are featured in this exhibition. This is based on the panel presented for Associateship membership of both the Malta Institute of Professional Photography and the Society for Wedding and Portrait Photographers.  There are 24 Black and White Images and 8 colour images, the result as George Abdilla points out, of an attempt to interpret the mood in a different way.

Dr de Marco recalled when years ago, George as a young photographer took a family portrait of all the De Marco family at his late father’s office, then the Minister of Foreign Affairs, a photograph which is highly treasured by the family.  This photograph captured the mood of the family so well, a truly remarkable work considering the busy and hectic life all those in it.  This same insight is found in these portraits here, where one can feel the music and vibrance of the moment.

In his address, George Abdilla pointed out that the thought of doing an exhibition had been on his mind for a number of years.  However, it was only last summer when confined at home with a broken knee that the opportunity arose.  He started going through his work to first prepare the Associateship panel and then expanded this into the exhibition which is being presented.  Mr. Abdilla  the thanked all those present, his family and those who had supported him to make this project possible.  In particular he thanked Ramon Sammut of ILab, without whose guidance, his work would not have reached these levels.  He continued to thank all his sponsors, The Palace Hotel, ILab, Bank of Valletta, B Grima and Sons, Alberta Group, Print It, Hansa Wines and Sprits, and Dream Thrills, without whom, this exhibition would not have been possible.

The exhibition is being held at the Palace Hotel in Sliema, and is open daily throughout all the day, till the end of May.