The artist behind a statue of Karmenu Mifsud Bonnici has spoken out about his work amid controversy over a decision to commemorate the former prime minister with a monument at Castille Square.
Reactions have been divided since Prime Minister Robert Abela unveiled the scale model of the €170,000 monument to Mifsud Bonnici last week.
Some questioned whether he deserved a monument, citing the political turmoil and violence during his tenure between 1984 and 1987, while others, including his niece, said he was a humble man and would be “saddened” by plans to erect a €170,000 monument in his honour.
Artist Manuel Farrugia said he had considered the former Labour leader’s personality when he decided how to depict him.
Unlike the other statues in Castille Square, Mifsud Bonnici will be shown sitting – a symbol of his humility and willingness to listen, Farrugia explained.
“Every leader has his good moments and his obscure moments – like everyone in life. But it also emerged that he was humble and charitable. Why not remember a person for that?” Farrugia said, stressing that his views and work are never influenced by political “colours”.
He said he came up with his bronze depiction after reading books and articles and watching documentaries about his subject.
The former prime minister’s hands are held together, his briefcase is beside him, and his sleeves are rolled up, indicating that he was a working man. He is not wearing a blazer, emphasising his closeness to the people.
The local stone pedestal represents his love for the country.
Why stamp out art that is part of our culture?
He is depicted looking towards Castille – his former office – where he had the opportunity to serve the people.
Farrugia said it was not his role to decide who should have a statue, but argued that monuments do more than commemorate politicians – they also celebrate the local artists who create them.
“It is an honour to be trusted by the State with a monument to a prime minister. This does not happen every day, and it comes with great responsibility. These monuments are part of our culture, and apart from commemorating the politician, they provide an opportunity for artists and celebrate art.
“Why stamp out art that is part of our culture?” said Farrugia, who is known for his painting of murdered migrant Lassana Cisse at Gozo’s St George’s basilica, as well as the official portrait and bust of former president George Vella, both displayed at San Anton Palace in Attard.
Regarding the monument’s cost, Farrugia noted that the process is complex. In addition to the cost of raw materials, it also involved travel to Italy, where he worked at a foundry.
Mifsud Bonnici’s niece argued that a better way to honour her uncle would have been through a scholarship fund supporting specialist education in industrial law.
On that topic, the artist suggested: “Why not? One does not exclude the other.”
The monument is expected to be installed in November, three years after Mifsud Bonnici’s death at the age of 89.
