I type away at a breakfast bar turned desk. The fridge is full of leftovers because I’m either cooking too little or too much. Behind me, the couch, which serves as a bed lies somewhere under a pile of duvets, pillows, throws and cushions. Yes, I finally moved out and yes, despite the impromptu-ness of everything, life is good. But that’s not the reason why I sat down to type on a breakfast bar.

My aunts were exclaiming the other day (as aunts do) over how much we’ve grown. A very sensitive topic with the cousins who were now in their mid 30s, and an even sorer point with those of us who were verging on them.

There’s something to be said (and written) about teaming up for a fantastic cause. Engel & Völkers Sara Grech Real Estate have partnered with The Maltese Gallery to give their customers a homely taste of the islands’ best artists. Similar to the pop-up exhibition style currently in vogue, E&V Sara Grech Lounges have now become hosts to local artistic talent. Clients can browse the selection of art on show at their outlets (which changes every month or so) and if anything sparks their interest, they can either contact the artist directly, speak to reception at the outlet or direct their queries to The Maltese Gallery who are in charge of co-ordinating the whole affair.I have visited the Mriehel Lounge where a number of paintings were on show. It might just be the fact that I’m a sucker wherever art is involved but I thoroughly enjoyed myself. I was lucky enough to get to meet one of the artists during my visit, Joseph Casapinta, with whom I enjoyed conversing about what went on behind the scenes of the three sea landscapes he had on show. A pale, tranquil dawn in one, a lazy afternoon in the other, while the third promised storms to come. It was quite honestly a pleasure to pick an artist’s brain, just inches away from his work of art.Perhaps it is also the combination of property and deco which gave the whole arrangement a new dimension. They complement each other on different levels, while also giving space for both budding artists and experienced veterans to breathe new air to their paintings. Cheers, The Maltese Gallery & E&V Sara Grech, for helping to kindle and spread the love for Maltese art.You can find original pieces of art at Engels & Völkers Sara Grech Mriehel and Fgura Lounges. If you are an artist, interested in showcasing your work, contact The Maltese Gallery for more info.