Matthew Kassar’s work consists of sculptural quality of collages. They are collages made from newspaper sheets and a restrained use of colour. The works could easily be regarded as graphics, since the architectural masses, shapes and forms are articulated by a contrast of black and white while the sky and earth are usually a flat, neutral grey-blue. The printed matter of newspapers is cleverly exploited. Matthew’s first phase was explicitly abstract – possibilities on a theme: moods. Nostalgic and melancholic, his abstracts belie the romantic leanings of his master Alfred Chircop, who taught him art at Sixth Form. At the age of 17 Matthew enrolled at the State School of Art and studied with Charles Cassar and Joseph L. Mallia for four years (1987-91). Tony Briffa taught him ceramics at Targa Gap School, Mosta in 2000 while Joe Degiovanni tutored him in drawing at Palazzode La Salle, Valletta. In 1997 Matthew attended a one-year course in interior design. In 1993 Matthew left for Loppiano in Valdarno, near Florence. There he lived a rare experience as he worked for four weeks with Roberto Cipollone (Ciro) in the artist’s studio. Ciro is a talented artist who recycles ‘found objects’ into unique works of art. This vital and exciting experience in La Bottega di Ciro probably left an indelible attraction for l’arte povera in Matthew’s subconscious. He was so grateful that in 1997 he assisted Ciro in organising an exhibition of his work at the Museum of Fine Arts in Valletta. In 1994 Matthew married Constance nee Vella and today they have two daughters, Francesca and Michela. Backed by his family, Matthew finds painting “an exhilarating, empowering and intimate experience. It is also a powerful way to communicate, relieving myself from the tension of having to do so in other words. I am very creative and fond of experimentation in various media”.