Progressive Street

 This project originated amidst the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although Malta did not enforce a strict lockdown, numerous establishments, such as shops, restaurants and entertainment venues, were compelled to close down, leaving only essential services operational. The prevailing fear amongst people, led to desolate streets, creating a disheartening sight. As a photojournalist, it became my responsibility to venture out, capture and record the essence of this somber world-struck period of time.

Even though I encountered a significant challenge in my pursuit of street photography due to the absence of individuals in public spaces, I was still determined to utilize my spare time productively.   I pondered over alternative solutions, contemplating, "What could be a suitable undertaking?" It was then that the idea of creating double exposure images, which has been a long-standing aspiration of mine, emerged. Intrigued by this notion, I decided to employ street photography as the foundation for this project. To enhance its complexity, I opted to combine images from Malta, my current location, with images captured during my frequent visits to London before the pandemic. The initial double exposure photograph received an overwhelmingly positive response, bolstering my confidence and prompting me to continue expanding the collection.

Unfortunately, my London-based image reservoir eventually depleted. Nonetheless, my enthusiasm for the project remained unwavering, compelling me to shift my focus solely on capturing street photography in Malta. As normalcy gradually returned, I regained the ability to explore the streets and resume my photography aspirations. The project persisted, garnering international recognition through interviews, articles and podcasts featured in prominent magazines across the United Kingdom, Italy, Australia, Asia, The United States, and various other European nations.

Subsequently, I had the opportunity to visit Sicily on multiple occasions for work-related assignments. During these trips, I dedicated time to engage myself in street photography and to attend the ProgresFestival organized by Batsceba Hardy, the founder of Progressive Street; alongside a group of like-minded individuals from all over the world in Milan.  Consequently, I acquired a diverse range of knowledgeable material, enabling me to expand the double exposure project to encompass Malta, Sicily, and Milan alike.

This year, I have set my intentions on visiting two or three countries that I am confident will be conducive to further augmenting the scope and artistic essence of my double exposure project.