UNDER THE MOONLIGHT was commissioned by someone who wanted an interpretation of his hometown. Inclusion of the St Publius parish church and adjacent granaries were chosen for their importance as being essential visual landmarks.

This Expressionist work is mostly bathed with a bright and eerie lighting; which in turn, contrasts heavily against an obscure sky. Overworked areas rub shoulders with 'unfinished' parts; blues and ochres meet, whilst the strategically placed cyan, green and red daubs of paint allow the eye to wander both vertically and across the canvas.

Two ghostly figures engaged in deep conversation merely act as a link between foreground and background, adding depth to this 'desolate' landscape. The lone bench with its bold cast shadow emanates a sense of solitude, thus inviting the viewer to regard this painting as an interpretation of mood rather than a straightforward portrayal of architectural features.

Keith Balzan