Malta Biennale Organisers Hit Back at Arts Lobby Over Criticism
In brief
- Malta Biennale organisers have issued a strong rebuttal against the Malta Entertainment Industry and Arts Association (MEIA).
- The Biennale accused MEIA of consistently attacking the festival and failing to acknowledge its achievements.
- MEIA had previously raised concerns about payments, contracts, and a lack of engagement from the Biennale.
The organisers of the Malta Biennale have strongly criticised the Malta Entertainment Industry and Arts Association (MEIA), accusing the lobby group of consistently attacking the festival. This response comes after MEIA called for a review of the Biennale's second edition.
In a statement titled "Facts Contradict MEIA's Claims," the Biennale organisers asserted that MEIA has "never found anything positive" to say about the event. They further accused the association of failing to acknowledge the festival's achievements since its inception.
The organisers described MEIA's criticisms as unsubstantiated, suggesting a pattern of negative commentary without concrete evidence. This ongoing dispute highlights tensions within Malta's cultural sector regarding the management and evaluation of major artistic events.
MEIA, for its part, had previously voiced concerns regarding various aspects of the Biennale's operations. These included issues related to payments, contractual agreements, and an alleged lack of engagement with stakeholders from the arts community.
The Biennale's statement indicates a firm stance against what it perceives as unfair and persistent criticism, aiming to defend its work and contributions to the local arts scene. The exchange underscores the need for clear communication and accountability in large-scale cultural projects.
The Spin Room
Low media divide. Both independent outlets reported on the dispute between the Malta Biennale and MEIA, highlighting the organisers' strong rebuttal to the arts lobby's criticisms.