From war and poverty to migration and injustice, Maltese ceramic artist Joseph Agius is preparing to confront some of society’s most uncomfortable realities through a powerful new exhibition.Titled Disillusioned, the exhibition will open on 30th October at ALA Gallery in Santa Venera, marking the inaugural exhibition at the artist’s private gallery.Curated by Melanie Erixon, the exhibition explores the cruelty, contradictions and injustices of the modern world, questioning why humanity continues to tolerate suffering despite claiming to value compassion and dignity.Through a collection of ceramic sculptures, Agius addresses themes including violence, genocide, poverty and the treatment of vulnerable communities.Known for his distinctive use of irony, sarcasm and thought-provoking titles, the artist uses his work to challenge social attitudes and encourage visitors to question the world around them.The exhibition’s title reflects a sense of disappointment in humanity and the repeated failures of societies to learn from past mistakes.But Agius’ perspective is shaped by more than the headlines.Having worked as a senior staff nurse at FairyLand ward for the past 30 years, he has witnessed the realities of pain, illness, despair and death throughout his professional career.These experiences, alongside international news and current affairs, have become important sources of inspiration for his artistic practice.What began as a hobby in ceramic sculpture has developed into an established artistic career, with Agius becoming a recognised figure in Malta’s ceramics scene.His sculptures often begin with familiar expressions, metaphors and figures of speech, which he transforms into visual narratives through clay.Rather than providing straightforward answers, Disillusioned invites audiences to reflect on the gap between the values society promotes and the actions it accepts.The exhibition will officially open on Friday 30th October, from 7pm to 10pm, at ALA Gallery, 34 Carini Street, Santa Venera.It will remain open until 29th November, with visiting hours every Saturday and Sunday between 8am and 4pm.Further details are available through the official Facebook event.Share with someone this would interest!•