Valletta (Xita tal-ħamrija) Painting

Xita tal-ħamrija is a term used to describe a meteorological phenomenon that occurs when fine sand and dust particles from the Sahara Desert are lifted into the atmosphere and transported by prevailing winds. Some of these sands make their way to the islands of Malta, typically making a mess of everyone’s windows, but also creating a dreamlike haze above the ancient cities. For a brief moment in time the sky and the land become one. This painting depicts Malta's iconic city, Valletta, as viewed from across the harbour at Sliema.