Street Organ Blues /I Can't Breath

Experience the captivating essence of Malta’s traditional ‘terramaxka’ street organ, a cherished cultural symbol prevalent during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Street Organ Blues by RAFiott pays homage to this nostalgic instrument while shedding light on the island’s architectural heritage, which flourished during that era. 

Immerse yourself in the allure of our streetscapes, where daily life intertwines with the very fabric of our reality and identity, intricately woven into the architectural marvels that surround us. Yet, amidst this beauty, a disheartening truth emerges – a reality tainted by greed and the loss of our cherished buildings.

A Dystopian Reality: Greed, Politics, and the Loss of Malta’s Natural Environment

Generations of self-serving politics have failed Malta, perpetuating the robbery of its natural environment and aesthetic allure. The bipartisan system, deeply entrenched in the nation’s progress, has impeded the implementation of effective conservation strategies, resulting in the continued degradation of our environment.

Enter ‘Street Organ Blues,’ a profound artistic statement reflecting the colors of the major political parties in its exquisite palette. Through this masterpiece, Ramon Azzopardi Fiott highlights the sluggish pace at which conservation efforts unfold, underlining the dire consequences of such delay on our environment.

The ‘Human Street Organ’: Symbolizing Struggles and Parallel Failures

At the heart of the street organ lies what the artist perceives as the ‘human street organ’ – the lungs. Powerfully invoking the phrase “I can’t breathe,” immortalized during the tragic murder of George Floyd, the artwork serves as a poignant reminder of the island’s air quality concerns. While Fiott’s work addresses the state of Malta’s environment, it draws a parallel to the systemic failures that lead to unjustifiable loss of life.

Notably, ‘Street Organ Blues’ has been exhibited at the esteemed Maltese National Fine Arts Gallery – MUŻA, Valletta, further solidifying its significance as an important artistic commentary. Discover the profound depth and thought-provoking message embedded within this remarkable limited edition fine artwork.