Collection Insight: Sanctuary

Vintage film photography Malta, Maltese photography, Maltese architecture, sandstone architecture

A Personal Reflection On 'Sanctuary'

When I think about the concept of sanctuary, it goes beyond just a physical place of safety. Sanctuary, to me, is something more deeply personal—it can manifest in the form of a relationship, an online space, or even a mental state. The true essence of sanctuary lies in creating a space—physical or emotional—that fosters peace, calm, and vulnerability. It’s a place where you can let go of the external pressures of life and find comfort, freedom to express your emotions, and a moment to rest your mind and body.

Sanctuary: The Collection

The Sanctuary collection holds a very special place in my heart, as it honours the moments I spent with my grandfather, or ‘Nannu’ in Maltese. Many of my most cherished memories revolve around our time together on the beach—digging for pipis in the sand, and finding limpets and barnacles on the rocks. This series of five pieces is inspired by the playful joy of those shared moments, serving as a tribute to the unique relationship we had. The whimsical forms and textures of each piece transport me back to those times of lightheartedness and exploration.

The heavily textured surfaces in the collection evoke the dynamic energy of the shoreline. They also reflect my deep appreciation for the Maltese traditions, like eating fresh seafood, and making up jokes together. Since Nannu’s passing, these memories and cultural insights have become a source of comfort, offering solace and tranquility when I need it most.

  • Child Vessel

    The Child Vessel consists of stacked pinch pots, with handles that resemble sippy cups—a symbol of innocence. The white glaze is marred with black speckles, representing the innocent and carefree childhood that, at times, was interrupted by difficult family circumstances. The vessel sits beneath the larger Nannu Vessel, symbolically protected in the shadow of his wisdom and strength.

    Child Vessel, 2024, glazed earthenware, H 10cm x W 8cm

  • Nannu Vessel

    The Nannu Vessel is a tribute to my grandfather. The cream glaze speaks to the weathered skin that comes with age, while the barnacles scattered across the surface represent the wisdom and life experience he gained over decades. A youthful pink interior contrasts this, highlighting Nannu’s playful personality. The textures on the vessel mirror the shells we both loved to find, bringing a sense of familiarity and warmth to the piece.

    Nannu Vessel, 2024, glazed earthenware, H 15cm x W 12cm

Pipi Reliquary

The Pipi Reliquary recalls a specific memory from a holiday to the coast of New South Wales. Nannu and I spent hours collecting pipis and other shellfish, only to return to find that Nannu had eaten the entire bucketful. Though the act was a bit gross, I couldn’t help but admire his enthusiasm. The glossy pink form upon which the pipi shell rests captures the feeling of both awe and slight repulsion that I felt in that moment. It’s a playful, yet poignant representation of the way memories can blend joy and discomfort.

Pipi Reliquary, 2024, glazed earthenware, H 12cm x W 9cm

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Limpet Reliquary

The Limpet Reliquary celebrates the sense of curiosity and discovery that was central to our beach excursions. As we explored the shoreline, we would find mollusks clinging to the rocks, holding on tightly to their place in the world. This reliquary is a tribute to the exploration of life and the little treasures we uncovered along the way—an enduring reminder of Nannu’s love for nature and curiosity.

Limpet Reliquary, 2024, glazed earthenware, H 14cm x W 13cm

Sandcastle

The Sandcastle piece is a reflection of the home I’ve built for these memories. It symbolizes the place where I store the joy, love, and lessons that Nannu imparted to me. Just like a sandcastle, it’s fragile, but it stands as a testament to the beauty of the past and the peace it continues to bring me.

Sandcastle, 2024, glazed earthenware, H 17cm x W 21cm

In this collection, sanctuary is not just a physical space but a deeply emotional one—a space where memories, love, and personal growth are nurtured. Through these pieces, I’ve found a way to carry forward the legacy of those moments with Nannu and transform them into a source of comfort and reflection. Each piece stands as a symbol of the sanctuary I’ve found in my own heart, built from the time we spent together and the bond we shared.