Jean Paul Sofia’s Cousin Creates Powerful Artwork Inspired By Protest Vote

A powerful painting created by Jean Paul Sofia’s cousin is drawing attention online after being shared by Isabelle Bonnici, who described it as a moving tribute to victims of construction-related tragedies. The artwork, painted by Kelly Scerri de Carlo, references Immanuel Mifsud’s iconic poem Aqta’ Fjura u Ibni Kamra while also reflecting on the recent protest vote and the ongoing conversation surrounding accountability within Malta’s construction sector. Sharing the piece on social media, Bonnici said the artwork captures a painful reality that continues to affect families who have lost loved ones. She reflected on how, as long as flowers continue to be cut down, the tears shed by grieving relatives will never be enough to restore the beauty, life and future that have been taken away. Bonnici also thanked Scerri de Carlo for creating what she described as a deeply expressive work that honours all those who have lost their lives in Malta’s construction industry. Jean Paul Sofia’s death in the collapse of a Corradino construction site in December 2022 sparked widespread calls for change, ultimately leading to a public inquiry and renewed scrutiny of Malta’s building industry. What message do you take from this painting? •