Rosa Martínez Returns to Lead Malta Biennale 2028 After Global Search
The renowned curator will direct the third edition after a competitive international search drew 110 applicants from 48 countries.
Rosa Martínez has been reappointed Artistic Director of the Malta Biennale, providing continuity as preparations begin for its third edition in March to May 2028.
The Malta Biennale Foundation selected Martínez following an international call that attracted 110 applications from 48 countries. She previously directed the 2026 edition.
The appointment precedes decisions on the event’s curatorial theme and the historic sites that will host it. Calls for artists and pavilions are expected to follow.
Martínez’s international experience includes the 2005 Venice Biennale, which she co-directed with María de Corral. Martínez curated “Always a Little Further” at the Arsenale, while de Corral was responsible for “The Experience of Art” at the Giardini.
Her other appointments have included biennales in Istanbul, Rotterdam, Busan and São Paulo, as well as the chief curator role at Istanbul Museum of Modern Art.
She also has an established relationship with Malta’s cultural sector. Martínez curated Constellation Malta during Valletta’s year as European Capital of Culture in 2018 and Austin Camilleri’s LE.IVA exhibition at Spazju Kreattiv in 2022.
Commenting on her return, she said she wanted to help consolidate the Malta Biennale as an artistic platform connecting contemporary thought and practice with the islands’ cultural heritage.
The 2028 programme will take place across Heritage Malta-managed museums and historic sites in Malta and Gozo.
For participating venues and cultural organisations, the next phase will establish the practical shape of the event: its locations, artistic programme and opportunities for collaboration.