Context

Refuge In Malta

The number of people seeking refugee status in Malta significantly increased after the turn of the millennium in the early 2000’s (The World Bank Group, n.d.). The majority arrive by boats leaving from the north african coastal countries such as Libya. Others came using other methods such as the subject to be photographed in my photographic body of work came to Malta to study in 1991 (as his father was living in Malta) when suddenly the Gulf War erupted and sought refuge in Malta.

The mix in culture did not resonate with all the local population, leading to xenophobia and racism. Anyone living in Malta for a period of time has a high chance that they heard the unfortunate and distasteful phrase 'Go back to your country'.

The photographic series of images revolves around the topic of immigration in Malta. The red and white colours represent the Maltese flag. The split from in the text with colour represents the division in society and how unfortunately people often run to premature conclusions either this or that, without understanding the nuances.

The cluster of numbers represent how unfortunately immigrants are often regarded as just a number without recognising that they are human of flesh and bones who have their own unique and individual story. The cluster of numbers are also a cryptic binary message.