Smuggler

Smuggler is a playful, thoughtful look at culture, tradition, and what it means to belong.

This exhibition by artist Erik Kaiser centres around the prickly pear cactus (Opuntia ficus-indica).
Although the cactus isn’t originally from Malta, it has become a common and recognisable part of the island’s landscape.

For the artist, the cactus represents strength, survival, and the ability to adapt. At first, his paintings show still-life scenes using personal and everyday objects.

But as his work develops, he begins to mix cactus imagery into classical and historical artworks, giving them a modern twist.

Kaiser also reimagines pieces from MUŻA’s collection—including works by Guido Reni, Giuseppe Vermiglio, Stefano Erardi, and Mattia Preti—blending old and new in creative and unexpected ways.

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