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Programme
The first route of the museum ship will be the Mediterranean, an area of millennia of history and exchange, which has always mobilized and nourished the inspiration of artists, and naturally invites intercultural dialogue.
Discover the programme of activities on the quayside and in the towns: performances, concerts, conferences, screenings, workshops, meetings and other events.
Upcoming events
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Experiences on board the museum boat
Experience on reservation. Duration: 45 min.
Workshop Mastro Sol, in preparation of Mastro Sol, Maja Escher
In this workshop, each participant shapes and creates their own edible form (biscuit-flag) made from biscuit dough that will be suspended as part of Mastro Sol, an installation inspired by vernacular celebrations and the mastros de promessa of the Alentejo region, where circular cakes are traditionally suspended on festive structures. Each form preserves the gesture and intention of the person who made it, becoming part of a collective artwork shaped by many hands. On June 27 at 11:30 am, when Mastro Sol is activated by the public, participants are invited to rediscover their own flag, see how it became part of the final installation, and harvest it to share, offer, or eat.
Caravanserá Workshop
Before the performance (on June 27th), audiences are invited to take part in a participatory workshop where movement, sound, and collective actions gradually shape the world of Caravanserá. Inspired by historical “caravanserais” – places of encounter and exchange –, the workshop creates an informal space where participants of different ages contribute to the atmosphere of the performance, blurring the boundaries between audience and performers.
Workshop Mastro Sol, in preparation of Mastro Sol, Maja Escher
In this workshop, each participant shapes and creates their own edible form (biscuit-flag) made from biscuit dough that will be suspended as part of Mastro Sol, an installation inspired by vernacular celebrations and the mastros de promessa of the Alentejo region, where circular cakes are traditionally suspended on festive structures. Each form preserves the gesture and intention of the person who made it, becoming part of a collective artwork shaped by many hands. On June 27 at 11:30 am, when Mastro Sol is activated by the public, participants are invited to rediscover their own flag, see how it became part of the final installation, and harvest it to share, offer, or eat.
Caravanserá Workshop
Before the performance (on June 27th), audiences are invited to take part in a participatory workshop where movement, sound, and collective actions gradually shape the world of Caravanserá. Inspired by historical “caravanserais” – places of encounter and exchange –, the workshop creates an informal space where participants of different ages contribute to the atmosphere of the performance, blurring the boundaries between audience and performers.
NEW BOWING BAND
NEW BOWING BAND is a project aimed at creating an intercontinental band that blends the musical traditions of the diverse cultures found in the municipality of Odemira. It is the stories and musical experiences of each musician that shape this soundscape, marked by a variety of influences. It is, therefore, a gathering of musicians from different countries who come together to play, sing, and, above all, create a new, contemporary, and vibrant sound.
Sopa de Pedra
Sopa de Pedra a Portuguese all-female vocal ensemble that explores the country’s oral traditions, passed down for generations by women through work songs, lullabies, ballads, and festive and religious songs. Their music is based on a cappella polyphony, sometimes accompanied by traditional percussion instruments such as the adufe and the pandeiro. Through their polyphonic arrangements, they breathe new life into a heritage long confined to the domestic sphere, bringing it to the forefront of contemporary stages, both in Portugal and abroad. Concert curated by Alain Weber.
PLO Man
In a DJ set shaped by dense atmospheres and subtle sonic drifts, PLO Man builds a sonic journey where house, techno, breakbeat and dub echoes intersect in a fluid way. Closely connected to the universe of Acting Press, a cult label within the underground electronic scene, he develops an approach attentive to texture, duration and the slow transformations of the dancefloor. The video projection of an original drawing by JAS expands this sensory experience.
KAI – JAS & Pedro Moura
An immersive performance where live drawing and sound unfold together. Through the collaboration between JAS and Pedro Moura, image and music merge into a shared sensory experience.
Bal Moderne
A contemporary dance event where everyone is invited to take part in a lively and joyful late afternoon full of movement. The audience learns, in just a few minutes, choreographies created by international artists, becoming performers themselves. Between learning and celebration, this collective format dissolves the boundaries between stage and audience, fostering connection, sharing, and the discovery of contemporary dance through direct experience.
CAROLF
In an immersive DJ set, CAROLF guides the audience through subtle sonic landscapes, weaving experimental textures, ethereal atmospheres, and sporadic rhythms. Her selection reveals a deep sensitivity to detail and mood. The experience is enhanced by video projections of JAS’s original drawings, creating a sensory dialogue where sound and image merge into a contemplative, ever-evolving universe.
Fiz um foguete imaginando que você vinha, de Janaína Marques
Rosa lies inside an MRI machine. She is asked to think of a happy memory, something she doesn’t have. It is time to create one, by returning to her childhood, when her mother was arrested and accused of murder. And there they are, in a realistic reverie, travelling in an old hot dog van along the dirt roads of northern Brazil. Janaína Marques’ feature debut is a guided tour through a mind in turmoil, its landscapes and its wounds.
Past events
Divertimento
For 17-year-old Zahia Ziouani and her twin sister, Fettouma, classical symphonic music holds an unparalleled significance. Despite residing in the underprivileged suburbs of Paris in 1995, with an Algerian background, their pursuit of dreams – Zahia aspiring to be an orchestra conductor and Fettouma a cellist – is marked by relentless challenges. Undeterred by adversity, fueled by determination, passion, and courage, they boldly establish their own orchestra, Divertimento. This initiative proves to be a transformative force, poised to redefine their journey and impact the world of classical music.
Think Tank Session by La Fondation 3CL
Manifestos for the digital age Join us for a discussion aimed at young people, as we delve into the dynamic world of contemporary activism and explore the relevance of manifestos in the digital age.
Mare Nostrum by KorMalta - Malta`s National Choir
Under the direction of chorus master Riccardo Bianchi, KorMalta embarks on a captivating musical odyssey themed around the sea. The ensemble's repertoire spans from the Renaissance era, featuring the timeless Mille Regretz attributed to Josquin Des Prez, to Monteverdi's renowned madrigal Ecco Mormorar l’Onde, which is adorned with the poetic brilliance of Torquato Tasso.
Malena
<span>Malena is the utterly unforgettable story of a boy’s journey into manhood amid the chaos and intolerance of World War II. In a sleepy Italian village, Malena, the most beautiful woman in town, becomes the subject of increasingly malicious gossip among the lustful townsmen and their jealous wives. But only her most ardent admirer, young Renato Amoroso, will learn her mysterious untold story.</span>
Think Tank Session by the Maltese Chamber of Scientists
Living oceans Immerse yourself in the wonders of marine life with our "Living Oceans" panel discussion. Join us for a discussion about the mysteries of the deep, conservation efforts, biodiversity and the fascinating creatures that inhabit our oceans. You'll gain a better understanding of what's at stake in marine ecosystems, and discover how we can all contribute to their preservation. Whether you're a marine enthusiast, an environmental advocate or simply curious about life beneath the waves, this event promises to be an informative and inspiring journey to the heart of our blue planet.
ŻfinMalta - National Dance Company: Aerial by Paolo Mangiola & Cantata by Mauro Bigonzetti
AERIAL by Paolo Mangiola, the company director, collaborates with pianist Tricia Dawn WIlliams to explore the ‘bird’s eye view’ and bird migration patterns, set to intricate compositions by John Cage, John Adams, and Ezio Bosso. The delicate movements unfold on a miniature scale, drawing inspiration from cinematic perspectives, establishing a unique dialogue between dance and music. CANTATA by Mauro Bigonzetti, is a visceral dance journey reclaiming Southern Italy’s musical heritage, portraying a continuous interplay of opposites through passionate choreography. Together, these works create a dynamic fusion of movement and music, promising a captivating exploration of emotions and contrasts.
BALLAD FOR THE LIVED: A CONCERT BY CLAIRE TONNA
In a Wharf (1752) that holds centuries of reconstruction, Claire Tonna presents the concert Ballad For The Lived nurturing the wharf’s same nature; becoming a place of loading and unloading. A transference, exchange and a sharing of courage and kindness to all at the port, be they arriving or departing on their journey of survival, healing and simply being in the present societies we live in. This concert is a ballad for the living, a story that shares wisdom, adventure and love. The compositions performed share a cloak of courage and faith in the human heart, a power that lives in each one and is revived and remembered through the togetherness and connections we inevitably share.
Gregarious
Gregarious offers a captivating portrayal of the human side of sports, challenging the traditional depiction of sports heroes. The performance seamlessly blends competition and collaboration, illuminating themes of teamwork and rivalry. Drawing inspiration from their own close friendship, the two artists have crafted a contemporary circus gem that exudes energy, wit, and charm. With exceptional physical abilities, breathtaking stunts, and clever comedic elements, Gregarious offers a fresh perspective on the emotional and personal dynamics that are at the core of sports.
Drift
Jacqueline (Cynthia Erivo), a young refugee, lands alone and penniless on a Greek island, where she tries first to survive and then to cope with her past. While gathering her strength, she begins a friendship with a rootless tour guide (Alia Shawkat) and together they find the resilience to forge ahead.
Tsungai Tsikirai and Band
Tsungai has been captivating audiences by showcasing her traditional African music, dances, and cultural heritage through mesmerising performances on various platforms. Beyond her shows, Tsungai finds joy in serving as a workshop facilitator, imparting the art of Southern African choral singing and dance to individuals from diverse backgrounds.
Vento Y Fogo
The vibrant multiculturalism of Malta, coupled with a shared passion for Latin rhythms, served as the catalyst for the collaboration between Marco Strafalaci from Italy and Patricia Torres from Uruguay. This unique fusion led to the creation of the musical project known as the Vento y Fogo duo. Their repertoire, spanning from South American tunes to Spanish, Italian, and beyond, invites the audience on a captivating journey through the joyful flavours of Mediterranean and Latin musicality.
Smadj, Safwane Kenani & Ersoj Kasimov
Smadj, a virtuoso on the oud and an electronic music innovator, forges a distinctive musical realm by seamlessly blending influences from the East and the Mediterranean Sea. His unique style, a pioneering force within the realm of electronic music, imparts a special hue to the traditional yet contemporary Mediterranean soundscape, drawing on diverse musical traditions from Turkey to the Maghreb.
Exodus
Two worlds collide when Sam (40), a people smuggler, reluctantly saves Amal, a 12-year-old girl whose whole family has gone missing in the Syrian war. Amal believes that they are on their way to Sweden so she sets out on a journey to find them. Sam hesitates but is troubled by the thought of leaving the girl alone in a no-man’s land, and gets dragged in.
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The museum boat
Discover the works of Laure Prouvost, Michelangelo Pistoletto and Akram Zaatari, the sound experience created by IRCAM, films by artists from 15 of the countries on the Mediterranean Festival tour, and a live programme (talks, concerts, performances...)
Films on Loop Programme
Underwater Painting by Yannis Maniatakos, 2012; Fragments by Ghassen Chraifa, 2020; No More Front Tears by Laure Prouvost, 2022
Frequently asked questions
The Art Explora Festival will take place from spring 2024 to spring 2026 in various Mediterranean cities.
Festival events take place both on the museum boat's quay and in heritage and/or emblematic sites in the stopover towns. To find out all about upcoming events in your town, consult our Agenda.
The Art Explora Festival offers a rich, multi-disciplinary program including visits to the museum ship, exhibition pavilions, virtual reality experiences, artistic performances, concerts, lectures, film screenings, creative workshops and meetings. You'll be able to discover local and international artists, as well as thinkers and cultural players exploring contemporary themes related to the Mediterranean region. To find out all about upcoming events in your city, consult our Agenda.
All Festival events are free of charge. Please note, however, that some events - such as workshops - require a reservation via the ticket office. Please consult the page dedicated to each event for more information on times and booking procedures.
To ensure that everyone has the best possible experience at the Festival, we have drawn up a visitors' charter listing a few good practices.
Yes, the boat is freely accessible on site. However, you can pre-book your time online on our website.
For reasons of safety and preservation of the boat, high heels and stilettos may not be worn on the boat.
To take part in the workshops and meetings offered during the Festival, you'll generally need to register in advance. Information on how to register will be available on the dedicated event page, where you can also find details of times and how to take part.
Yes, the Art Explora Festival also offers child-friendly activities, such as creative workshops specially designed for young participants. Take a look at the program to find out about events and activities for children and families.
The museum boat is open to all free of charge. To find out on which quay it will be moored, or to pre-book your slot, consult the page dedicated to your town.
Appropriate facilities have been set up on the Festival site for the reception and access of people with reduced mobility. The boat is equipped with a 1m-wide ramp, accessible to people with reduced mobility, but may require the accompaniment of a third party due to its gradient of over 6%. Access to the aft deck and immersive exhibition is possible. However, the upper deck is not accessible. Please inform us in advance of any special accessibility requirements, so that we can make the necessary arrangements.
Thank you for your interest in the Art Explora Festival! To find out more about our volunteer opportunities and to apply, please visit our "Become a volunteer"section of our website. There you'll find all the information you need about the roles available and the application procedure. We look forward to meeting you!
We're delighted to consider new partnerships for the Art Explora Festival. To find out how, please visit our dedicated page or write to us at contact@artexplora.org