Once again this year, Ghajnsielem sculptor Joe Xuereb, has donated one of his latest creative works, to the London based organization “Malta Charities Association” which holds activities to raise funds to be distributed to Maltese charities.

During the Christmas period, the Malta Charities Association, under the guidance of its chairperson Mrs Madeleine Hladnik, has organized a Gala Dinner at the renowned The Landmark Hotel in London during which event, some works of art donated by Maltese and Gozitan artists were auctioned among those who attended the fund raising dinner.

This year, stone sculptor Joe Xuereb has donated one of his sculptures titled ‘Intimita’ (2007) of height of 47cm which was among the art pieces auctioned during the evening. To the surprise of all those present, Xuereb’s work was sold for a record price of GBP £3500- (approx. LM2100- €4890) The Gozitan sculptor has been a regular contributor to the Malta Charities Association for the past seven years but this time his work fetched such an astounding price since so many bided for his two figure sculpture that depicted love, tenderness and harmony. It is to be pointed out that Express Trailers Ltd., of Qormi have sponsored the freight expenses to transport Xuereb’s sculpture to London for free.

For the last six years, Gozitan based charitable organizations such as Arka Foundation, Oasis Foundation and Eden (Ghajnsielem) have benefited from the proceeds collected by the Malta Charities Association after Joe Xuereb has pleaded with the committee to consider that Gozo charities should also benefit from the funds raised in London. This year with Xuereb recommendation, Arka Foundation was chosen as one of the main beneficiaries and it is expected that in April 2008, a substantial donation will be handed to Mons. Fr.Emmanuel Curmi, founder of the Respite Center. To this effect a meeting was held way back in October between Mrs Tina Rapinet, committee member representing Malta Charities, sculptor Joe Xuereb and the management of Arka Foundation to explore the possibility of sponsoring one of the major projects Arka Founation is presently striving to implement at their Center based in Ghajnsielem.

Considering that Xuereb’s sculptures are always a big attraction during their events in London, Malta Charities Association makes it point each year to get a donation from the Gozitan sculptor.