In the realm where tradition waltzes with technology, Nico Conti is the maestro orchestrating the dance. His project, “Of Lace and Porcelain,” is a poetic fusion of yesteryears and tomorrows. Imagine a classical vase draped in the intricate threads of Maltese lace, known locally as Bizzilla, then sprinkled with the 21st-century magic of 3D printing. What emerges is Nico’s art: a timeless form swathed in history, yet pulsating with the modernity only technology can bring.
Don’t expect a linear roadmap to Nico’s creative universe; he’s more of a wanderer than a planner. Each piece begins as a mere wisp of an idea, a fleeting vision of how it might capture light or grace a space. And by the time it reaches its final form, it has often shape-shifted, embodying the fluidity that defines Nico’s work. It’s a journey of transformation, where intuition reigns supreme.
The alchemy happens in stages. First, a digital sketch in Rhino3D. Then, a slicing of the design into layers, setting the stage for the 3D printer. But the pièce de résistance? The kiln. Here, Nico’s custom porcelain blend undergoes a fiery transformation at 1300 degrees Celsius, emerging as a translucent marvel. It’s a meticulous process, one that combines the precision of technology with the soul of craftsmanship.
Ah, but let’s not forget the Mediterranean—the silent muse that whispers through Nico’s work. After a five-year sojourn in London, Nico found himself yearning for the Maltese sun and sea. That nostalgia, that ache for home, weaves its way into every curve and crevice of his art, making each piece a quiet ode to the island that shaped him. It’s as if each creation is a love letter to Malta, penned in porcelain and lace.
So, as you stand before Nico Conti’s creations, realize you’re not merely observing—you’re engaging in a dialogue between epochs. It’s a tête-à-tête that invites you to contemplate the past while flirting with the future. And as Nico prepares for his upcoming solo exhibition, know that he’s not just curating a collection; he’s scripting a narrative that’s poised to redefine Malta’s artistic lexicon, one that promises to be a cornerstone in the ever-evolving story of Maltese art.
