Old metal objects are being given an extraordinary second life as Maltese artist Joe Genovese transforms discarded materials into intricate animal sculptures for an upcoming exhibition in Ta’ Qali.Titled Metalmorphosis: Nature Reforged, the exhibition will take place at the MANI Centre in the Ta’ Qali Crafts Village from 11th to 28th November, showcasing a collection of wildlife-inspired sculptures created entirely from recycled metal.Curated by Melanie Erixon, the exhibition explores the relationship between nature and machinery, with Genovese using discarded industrial objects to recreate the anatomy, movement and physical characteristics of different animals.And some of the materials used in his creations are more than 100 years old.Each sculpture is carefully assembled from reclaimed metal objects sourced from different places and periods, giving forgotten materials a completely new purpose.Through welding, reshaping and intricate craftsmanship, Genovese transforms pieces of scrap metal into detailed representations of feathers, muscles, scales and bones, creating sculptures that appear both mechanical and remarkably lifelike.But the process involves much more than simply putting metal pieces together.Before creating each sculpture, Genovese carries out extensive research into the animal’s anatomy, studying its structure and movement to ensure that every detail is accurately represented.Finding the right materials is equally important, with the artist spending considerable time sourcing and adapting individual metal components to fit the shape of each creature.The result is a collection that challenges visitors to reconsider the value of discarded objects, while exploring themes of transformation, survival and reinvention.And the artist behind these striking creations has spent decades developing his craft.Born in Mdina in 1957, Genovese grew up surrounded by creativity, with his father, Joseph Genovese, being a renowned traditional Maltese crib maker.His artistic journey began at a young age, studying at the School of Arts before exploring clay modelling, ceramics, sculpture and gold plating.By 1979, he had established his first workshops in Dingli, later opening a studio in Mosta specialising in airbrush painting on cars, motorcycles and boats.He also went on to establish his own ceramics factory before gradually shifting his focus towards expressionism and contemporary art.A turning point in his career came around the turn of the millennium, when encouragement from Dame Françoise Tempra inspired him to further explore contemporary artistic expression.Today, his work brings together decades of experience across different artistic disciplines, combining traditional craftsmanship with an unconventional approach to sculpture.Metalmorphosis: Nature Reforged will officially open on Wednesday 11th November, with an opening event taking place from 7pm to 9.30pm.The exhibition will remain on display at the MANI Centre in Ta’ Qali until 28th November.More information can be found on the official Facebook event page.Would you like to see more discarded materials transformed into works of art?•