Mark Mallia (20 April 1965 – 23 July 2024) was a self-taught Maltese outsider artist, celebrated for his abstract and portrait paintings, as well as his mixed media and ceramic sculptures. His artistic journey took him from Malta to Monaco, the United Kingdom, and the United States, leaving an indelible mark on the art world.
Born in Pietà, Malta, Mallia’s signature style exuded a dynamic energy, fuelled by his unique obsessions that transformed into a vibrant array of mischief, audacity, and mystery. Known for his maverick spirit, he created a diverse body of work that resonated with art lovers worldwide.
Mallia’s major exhibitions included solo showcases in Malta, such as Open Closet, Postcards from Beyond, and Black Canvas, alongside collective exhibitions at prestigious venues like Art Basel Miami and the Royal Windsor Racecourse in the UK. Beyond his artistic endeavours, he was also dedicated to raising awareness and funds for ALS in Malta.
In his later years, Mallia collaborated with Angelo Dalli to explore the intersection of art and artificial intelligence, teaching a machine the nuances of creativity and visual expression. Tragically, he passed away on 23 July 2024, two days after suffering an aneurysm, leaving behind a rich legacy of artistic exploration.
In July 2020, I, along with my husband Reginald, met Mark Mallia, a stranger whose vibrant paintings had captivated me at Zeris Restaurant for about eight years. Our desire to commission a series of paintings for our home led us to 111 Art Gallery in Gzira, where a friendship blossomed amid his captivating works.
Our meeting was not just a professional engagement; it became a heartfelt exploration of art and life. Over two bottles of wine, we delved into conversations that ranged from the struggles of an artist to how he imagined artificial intelligence would impact art and dentistry.
Two years later, as we were finalizing plans for our dental clinic, I proposed the idea of commissioning him to create pieces for the clinic. Our discussion sparked the inception of the “Roots” series—a conceptual reflection of the underlying connections between art, dentistry, and our shared passion for combining science with beauty.
The name “Root” signifies more than just dental health; it represents the dedication and artistry inherent in our craft. Just as roots nourish a tree, our work as dental professionals nurtures the well-being of our patients.
Mallia completed seven out of eight commissioned paintings, each reflecting a profound narrative that explored the divide between the visible and the hidden. His final painting, intended for our clinic, remained an elusive vision, never fully realized on canvas. Yet, his thoughts on returning to our roots resonate through each piece.
The “Roots” series is now prominently displayed in our treatment rooms and reception area, which we affectionately call our gallery—a space where art meets dentistry, creating a sanctuary for creativity. Together with Mallia, we envisioned transforming the perception of dental visits, fostering a culture of joy and inspiration.
Mark Mallia’s artistic spirit will forever be intertwined with the walls of Root Dental Clinic, serving as a lasting tribute to his legacy. His paintings remind us that art and healing are intrinsically connected, encouraging our patients to embrace the beauty of both.
— By Ann Meli Attard